Port Hedland Solar Project paves the way for renewable energy transition

APA Group and BHP launched the Port Hedland Solar and Battery Project on Tuesday, signalling a step forward in Australia’s transition to renewable energy. Featuring a 45MW solar photovoltaic farm and a 36.7MWh battery energy storage system, the facility is connected to APA’s Port Hedland Power Station and will supply cleaner energy to BHP’s WA Iron Ore port operations. The project is pivotal in reducing emissions in the Pilbara, one of Australia’s most resource-dependent regions, demonstrating how renewables can replace traditional thermal energy. One of the project’s achievements is solving the challenge of building renewable energy infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather. Unlike typical inland solar installations, the Port Hedland solar farm is in a cyclone-prone coastal area. It’s design enables it to endure wind speeds of up to 288km/h, setting a new standard for solar energy projects in similar environments, and paving the way for renewable infrastructure in high-risk regions. The hybrid solar and battery system highlights the potential for renewable energy to meet industrial-scale needs without compromising system security. For the Pilbara region, a global hub of mining operations, this project represents a shift toward decarbonisation on the world stage. APA Group CEO and managing director Adam Watson described the project as an essential component of broader efforts to transition Australia’s resources sector. “To achieve our nation’s emissions reduction ambition, it is essential that we have a plan for decarbonisation across the resources sector, “ Mr Watson said, “This project demonstrates how solar, battery, and gas-powered generation can be sewn together to successfully transition remote mining operations.” He also noted the $15 billion investment it would take to decarbonise the Pilbara completely. “The investment required to decarbonise Western Australia’s minerals-rich Pilbara region alone is estimated to be about $15b, and we have a strong $3b-plus pipeline of growth projects that we continue to progress,” Mr Watson said. BHP WA Iron Ore asset president Tim Day said the solar farm would soon supply most of the daytime energy needed to operate the company’s large-scale port facilities. “This power purchase agreement is a step forward on BHP’s global pathway to decarbonisation, and it will also play an important role in the renewable energy future of the Pilbara,” Mr Day said. He also underscored the greater implications of similar projects. “From electrifying mining equipment and switching to renewable power sources like this, to partnering with the shipping industry and steelmakers to help them reduce their emissions, it’s all about doing our part for the global decarbonisation effort.” The project has received $1.5 million in funding from the West Australian Government’s Clean Energy Future Fund. The BESS component will replace spinning reserve traditionally provided by gas-fired power, ensuring instant support to the grid when needed.