In a landmark initiative for renewable energy in Western Australia, the Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation (NAC) is set to develop an 80MW solar farm near Karratha in the expansive Pilbara region. This project aims to supply renewable energy to Rio Tinto’s operations across the Pilbara, marking the first collaboration between the Ngarluma people and the iron ore giant following a recent memorandum of understanding to explore renewable energy opportunities on Country. Ngarluma to Build 80MW Solar Farm for Rio Tinto Pilbara Operations
Located adjacent to Rio Tinto’s existing Yurralyi Maya Power Station near Karratha, the solar farm is poised to displace up to 11% of the natural gas currently consumed by Rio Tinto’s integrated mining operations in the Pilbara. This transition is expected to reduce emissions by up to 120,000 tonnes of CO2e annually once the project is complete.
The feasibility study for the solar farm is anticipated to be finished by early 2025, with commissioning planned for 2027, contingent on relevant approvals and final investment decisions. To substantially reduce the natural gas usage across Rio Tinto’s Pilbara power network, an estimated 600MW to 700MW of renewable energy will be necessary by 2030. Additionally, further renewable energy will be required to support widespread fleet electrification, expected to commence after 2030.
NAC CEO Ljuba Mojovic expressed the significance of the project, highlighting its potential to generate economic opportunities for the Ngarluma people while contributing to environmental sustainability in the region.
“The solar farm project will enable NAC to realise sustainable revenues, increase contracting opportunities, and contribute to a positive environmental impact in the Pilbara,” Mojovic stated. “This project development is a testament to the enduring strength of our special relationship with Rio Tinto, and our shared commitment to working together to create a more sustainable future.”
Echoing these sentiments, Richard Cohen, Rio Tinto’s Managing Director of Rail, Port & Core Services, emphasized the broader implications of the project beyond emission reductions.
“We are grateful for their efforts and support to reach this important milestone,” Cohen remarked. “Developments like this are about more than reducing emissions – they’re critical for economic opportunities and strengthening our connection with the Ngarluma People. It underscores the significance of our long-term relationship with them and demonstrates our commitment to working together to contribute to a more sustainable future.”
The collaboration between NAC and Rio Tinto represents a significant step forward in integrating renewable energy into the mining sector, highlighting the potential for traditional custodians and major corporations to work together towards a sustainable and economically beneficial future.
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Source: https://nit.com.au/16-07-2024/12557/ngarluma-rio-tinto-pursue-80mw-pilbara-solar-farm
