Western Power has officially opened its new $123 million energy hub in Forrestdale, which includes multiple clean energy technologies to service its community.
Built by ADCO Constructions, and designed by SPH Architects, the facility includes 10,00m2 of solar panels and 34 electric vehicle (EV) chargers, providing improved services to the community as well as consolidating the Kewdale, Jandakot, Forrestfield and Mt Claremont depots.
In collaboration with local Noongar and Ballardong Elders, Western Power named the depot Boyli Mia, meaning Power House, which has around 850 employees and houses 500 vehicles.
Boyli Mia also includes state-of-the-art workshops and laboratories delivering a range of services. It also includes a 1MW battery energy storage system.
Western Australia Energy Minister, Bill Johnston, said that the hub has been built for the future, helping to provide clean energy for the state.
“Western Power’s new South Metro Depot has been designed for the future – to support the rapid transformation of the grid, while continuing to deliver safe and reliable power,” Mr Johnston said.
“The consolidation of Kewdale, Jandakot, Forrestfield and Mt Claremont depots into the one at Forrestdale will improve efficiencies and services as well as help drive down network costs.
“The facility emphasises the Cook Government’s commitment to continue to deliver safe, reliable and affordable energy for all Western Australians.”
Featured image: Touring the new Fleet Workshop at South Metro Depot (L to R): Western Power CEO, Sam Barbaro, Member for Jandakot Yaz Mubarakai MLA, Energy Minister, Bill Johnston, City of Armadale Mayor, Cr Ruth Butterfield. Image credit:Western Power
