Horizon Power has undertaken a $3.8 million electrical network infrastructure upgrade to standardise the electricity supply across 13 Aboriginal communities.
The Aboriginal Community Embedded Networks project is part of the Western Australian Government’s WA Recovery Plan.
Works were completed in Bell Springs and Munthamar in the Kimberley region in March 2022.
Horizon Power will be responsible for the ongoing supply of electricity and maintenance of the electrical infrastructure. This means customers in these communities will now be able to call its contact centre in Broome for any network supply issues.
As part of the upgrade works, Horizon Power has installed 53kW LED streetlights in each community.
The lights are expected to significantly improve night visibility, making communities safer for road users and pedestrians.
Horizon Power engaged regional contractors and Aboriginal-owned businesses to deliver this project with 26 jobs associated with the project, including two roles to Aboriginal people.
The communities include:
- Kimberley
- Mud Springs
- Joy Springs
- Gillarong
- Karnparmi
- Loanbun
- Emu Creek
- Mardiwah Loop
- Bell Springs
- Munthamar
- Koongie Park
- Woodgamia
- Buttah Windee
Western Australian Energy Minister, Bill Johnston, said, “The Aboriginal Community Embedded Networks project ensures that those living in regional communities receive the same utility-grade standard service as everyone else in the state.
“This is just one of many projects being delivered as part of the WA Recovery Plan, which aims to create jobs, invest in our regions and help build a cleaner energy future.”
