A partnership between InterContinental Energy, CWP Global and the Mirning indigenous community is moving forward with the creation of the Western Green Energy Hub (WGEH), one of Australia’s most ambitious hybrid energy developments. The project is located on traditional lands of the Mirning people in the southeast of the state, and will combine solar and wind power to produce green hydrogen on a large scale.
Clean energy with green hydrogen from ancient lands
The chosen location is noted for its optimal climatic conditions: an undulating plateau with an abundance of sun and wind throughout the day. In its first stage, the WGEH will generate up to 8 GW of renewable energy, equivalent to the entire installed Australian rooftop solar capacity. This energy will be converted into up to 500,000 tons per year of green hydrogen. green hydrogenemissions.
The hub will be built in several phases over the coming decades, integrating solar and wind generation assets, electrolysis plants, desalination facilities and a marine terminal for exports. In addition, on-site component manufacturing is envisaged, relying on existing rail and road networks.
The hydrogen produced will be used both in the domestic market and in exports, supplying sectors such as mineral processing, heavy transport heavy transport and maritime energy supply.
Environmental and cultural commitment
Monitoring of solar and wind resources is currently underway, in addition to detailed environmental studies of terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Cultural assessments are a central part of the project: working closely with Mirning traditional custodians to identify and protect sensitive areas, ensuring that development does not interfere with spiritual or heritage sites.
Since 2019, the project has gone through key stages, including state recognition as a Lead Agency and, more recently, as a Major Project. By 2029, the final investment decision is expected to be reached. The regulatory, technical and community process is ongoing and will continue to provide relevant data on the energy and cultural potential of the site.
The vision behind the WGEH positions Western Australia as a key player in the global energy transition, integrating technology, sustainability and respect for indigenous communities.
Source: WGEH
Photo: Freepik