Kalumburu is now home to a 929 kilowatt solar farm and 1.78 megawatt hour battery, which will provide up to 64 per cent of the community’s electricity needs.
The green energy solution will significantly reduce the community’s reliance on diesel and improve power supply for its 400 residents.
Once fully operational, in March 2022, the new energy supply will significantly reduce carbon emissions by up to 825 tonnes per year – the equivalent of taking 180 cars off the road.
For the first time, the savings from the reduced cost to supply power to Kalumburu will be re-invested into the community. Horizon Power will give back $15,000 each year for 10 years or $150,000 upfront for the community to invest in further renewable energy projects.
Horizon Power and Kalumburu Aboriginal Corporation representatives were in Kalumburu today to celebrate the new power supply.
The project will deliver similar renewable energy solutions to other Aboriginal communities in the Kimberley.
As stated by Energy Minister Bill Johnston:
“The new Kalumburu energy solution will reduce the community’s energy costs and contribute to the McGowan Government’s target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“The State Government is pleased to be working closely with Aboriginal communities to support their transition to cleaner, greener energy solutions.”
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna:
“The Kalumburu project is creating exciting opportunities for the local community and helping them save on their power bills.
“The initial installation resulted in employment for five local workers, and it is particularly great to see Horizon Power returning savings to the community for re-investment.”
