Horizon Power successfully commissioned the new South Hedland power station, supplying Pilbara customers with energy from what it calls the most efficient gas power station in the region built by TransAlta Energy (Australia).
The new highly efficient Pilbara power plant features both natural gas and steam turbines. The project includes the construction of a new transmission line for delivery of power to FMG’s port operations.
The new power station, which will deliver 150 megawatts of the most fuel efficient energy in the Pilbara, is the result of a successful joint initiative between the State Government and industry to meet the long-term power needs of the region.
WA Energy Minister Ben Wyatt said, “This new power station will deliver residents and industry of the Pilbara, safe, reliable and fuel-efficient energy supply well into the future, with Horizon Power drawing approximately 110 megawatts of power from the new station while also boosting jobs in the area.”
“This combined-cycle gas power station will provide essential energy supply for the rapidly growing Pilbara region under an innovative privately funded delivery model constructed under an agreement between the State Government, Horizon Power and Fortescue Metals Group.”
An extensive procurement process funded by the State Government and driven by Horizon Power, awarded the contract to build, maintain and operate the station to energy company TransAlta.
The station will provide energy to Horizon Power and major resource company Fortescue Metals Group. The new plant can be expanded to supply power to other commercial users.
During construction, the plant provided up to 214 jobs for the local area. Now completed, it will have 24 staff supporting 24/7 operations in South Hedland.
The combined-cycle natural gas power station is one of the most efficient power plants in Western Australia, and the most efficient in the Pilbara, providing low-cost electricity and generating low greenhouse gas emissions.
