Horizon Power has signed its first indigenous land use agreement (ILUA) in the Kimberley to support the region’s clean energy transition.
The agreement with the Nyul Nyul people of Beagle Bay allows Horizon Power access to a four-hectare area of land in Beagle Bay for the development of a future energy system that will deliver increased renewable energy for the community.
The renewable energy development is in its planning stages and is expected to draw on the region’s significant solar resource.
Horizon Power will work with the Nyul Nyul people and the Beagle Bay community as part of that development.
Horizon Power will also provide broader support to the community as part of the agreement, including through installation of airstrip lighting to improve safety for services like the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Western Australian Energy Minister, Reece Whitby, said that the State Government is committed to sharing the benefits of the decarbonisation journey with community.
“We are proud to be working closely with Traditional Owners to ensure the clean energy transition is fair and equitable for all Western Australians,” Mr Whitby said.
“This will ensure remote and regional residents have access to renewable energy so they can reap the benefits of cleaner power.”
Western Australian Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Tony Buti, said, “I am very pleased to see this Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the Nyul Nyul people reached.
“This an important milestone and part of the government’s ongoing commitment to Closing the Gap, Aboriginal empowerment and supporting Aboriginal culture and wellbeing.”
Kimberley MLA, Divina D’Anna, said that the agreement is an exciting step for renewable energy in the Kimberley.
“I look forward to seeing more people in remote and regional locations reap the benefits of cleaner power.
“I am excited to see remote Aboriginal communities playing an important role in our transition to a clean energy future.”
Horizon Power CEO, Stephanie Unwin, said that signing the first ILUA is a significant milestone for Horizon Power.
“We look forward to building on our relationship with the Nyul Nyul people and partnering with them on their energy future.
“Western Australia’s transition to a low-carbon economy is a collaborative journey. We are committed to building and delivering energy solutions which balance the demand, reliability and future energy needs of our towns with the voices and opinions of those who help make it a community,” Ms Unwin said.
“As a microgrid specialist, Horizon Power understands the need to tailor bespoke energy solutions to meet the unique energy needs of all regional and remote customers. This partnership paves the way for our future energy systems and supports the decarbonisation of some of our most remote Indigenous communities.”
Featured image: Horizon power representatives alongside Nyul Nyul PBC Aboriginal Corporation Directors in Beagle Bay. Image credit: Horizon Power.
