- Cook Government to consult on new transmission
connection contributions model
- Proposed model to required new and expanded
transmission connections to pay $100,000 per megawatt from 1 July 2026
- Change to provide greater certainty for
renewable energy investments
The Cook Government has opened consultation on a simplified
payment model for major energy projects requiring a connection to Western
Australia's main energy grid as the State continues its path towards becoming a
renewable energy powerhouse.
The proposed fixed capital
charge will apply to new and expanded transmission connections.
Under the proposal released today, generators, storage
providers, and large energy users requiring a connection to the South West
Interconnected System of more than 10 megawatts (MW) will pay $100,000 per MW.
This will replace Western Power's
current arrangement, which required first movers to pay the bulk of capital
costs.
Transitional arrangements are
proposed until 30 September 2026 to ensure projects that would have been
processed under the existing shared assets arrangements are left no worse off.
With almost
$1.7 billion already committed to deliver Clean Energy Link transmission
projects, this simplified approach will provide greater certainty for
proponents while balancing the cost of delivering this major infrastructure
investment.
To find out more and download the consultation paper, visit
the Energy Policy WA website.
Submissions can be made to EPWA-info@deed.wa.gov.au.
Comments attributed to Energy and
Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"Clean Energy Link will unlock new renewable generation,
strengthen our main energy grid, and power a more diverse and resilient Western
Australian economy.
"Industry needs transparency and certainty as we expand the
network in our drive to become a renewable energy powerhouse.
"This fixed capital charge gives generators, energy-storage
providers, and large users a clear understanding of contribution arrangements
so they can invest with confidence."
