Western Australia targets 75% renewable energy target
Key points
- The Western Australia Government announced plans to increase renewable energy on the South West Interconnected System from 40% to 75% within five years.
- A $150 million fund will offer loans up to $15 million to help businesses install solar panels and batteries.
- Officials stated the target increase aims to prevent a projected 89% surge in industrial electricity prices.
The Western Australia government announced a target to raise renewable power on the main southern grid from 40% to 75% within five years.
Official modelling indicated industrial electricity costs could jump 89% without an alteration to the state's energy mix.
"By delivering more renewable energy backed by battery storage and flexible WA gas, we’re building a state of energy and putting downward pressure on power prices," said Western Australia Premier Roger Cook.
To support the transition, the state launched a $150 million fund providing loans up to $15 million for corporate solar and battery installations.
The government stated that the policy shift is expected to protect manufacturing jobs and lower pressure on household living costs.
Earlier estimates showed industrial electricity prices rising from under $200 per megawatt hour to $ by 2029 and over $350 by 2032.
The state previously expanded its renewable energy proportion from 14% in 2017 to 40% in 2025 using $2.5 billion in grid infrastructure investments.