As part of the McGowan Government’s WA Recovery Plan, the Premier announced a $21 million investment in energy infrastructure projects for the Kimberley, to be delivered by Horizon Power.
Horizon Power’s Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Unwin said the Government’s announcement would enable Horizon Power to fast track a number of its energy infrastructure projects which would improve power quality, reliability and services across the Kimberley.
“This is an opportunity for Horizon Power to deliver a comprehensive and diverse program of infrastructure projects which will benefit our customers, including some of the most remote Aboriginal communities in Australia,” Stephanie said.
“These projects include $3.81 million to upgrade electrical infrastructure in nine remote Aboriginal communities in the Kimberley, which will improve power reliability, and create jobs on country.
“$12 million has also been allocated for the installation of battery energy storage systems in the towns of Broome and Yungngora, which will allow more customers in the future to install, connect and enjoy the long-term benefits and savings of rooftop solar.”
Horizon Power has received $2.96 million to establish its first Customer Experience Centre, to be located in Broome, which is due to open in November 2020. This will provide customers with access to face-to-face expert energy advice, along with interactive digital self-serve facilities incorporated into a new shop-front environment.
As part of this initiative, Horizon Power will be relocating its customer call centre from Melbourne to Broome, creating 10 new full time call centre jobs in the community.
$5.2 million has been allocated to fund new renewable energy solutions for the Shire of Derby and Derby Hospital. Horizon Power will install new rooftop solar systems across The Shire’s portfolio of buildings as well as upgrade streetlights to smart LED streetlights.
“Horizon Power will also be working in partnership with the Derby Hospital to co-design a large-scale solar PV and battery solution,” Stephanie said.
“This is a significant project which will contribute to the reduction in Derby Health Services’ annual power costs and enable more of the State’s funds to be redirected into other essential services across the region.”
“We know that our customers across the Kimberley have faced very difficult and challenging times as a result of COVID-19,” Stephanie said.
“The Government’s $21 million investment in energy infrastructure projects will help local businesses recover from the pandemic, and create immediate and long term regional job and supplier opportunities.”
Pictured L-R: Melanie Virgo, Broome Visitor Centre General Manager, Elaine Joliffe, Broome Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Officer, Premier, Hon Mark McGowan, MLA, Stephanie Unwin, Horizon Power, Chief Executive Officer