Member for Geraldton, Kirrilee Warr MLA, says the State Government has missed out on another opportunity to upgrade the transmission to Geraldton, amid another project in the Mid West.
The State Government on Wednesday awarded the $342m contracts to upgrade the northern section of the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) to Three Springs.
For years, local leaders and businesses have called for greater power resilience within Geraldton, but the area was not included as part of the upgrades.
Ms Warr said Geraldton had been left out once again.
“Without that connection, our region is stuck- missing out on jobs, investment and the chance to lead in diversifying our economy,” she said.
“This was a clear opportunity to back Geraldton and unlock our full potential. Instead, we’re still waiting.”
An upgrade to the SWIS would not only help improve power reliability in one of the state’s largest regional hubs, but could also assist with renewable projects.
Ms Warr said Geraldton as a scope for upgrades, saying the renewable projects within the electorate made it desirable.
“The expansion to Geraldton is a no-brainer thanks to the Mid West having some of the world’s best renewable resources, and upgrades to the SWIS will be required to ensure these projects can be connected,” she said.
“The State Government hopes the Oakajee SIA will help innovate the renewable industry, but the infrastructure to get it up and running must come first, including power.”
Ms Warr urged the State Government to consult with the community to ensure there was a partnership for major infrastructure projects.
“Big energy projects must happen with us, not to us. That means real consultation, early engagement, and decisions that reflect the aspirations of our region.” she said.
“In saying that, I look forward to reviewing the Community Benefits Guideline document following the consultation process initiated by Minister Sanderson earlier this year and now being undertaken by Powering WA.
“If Geraldton is to play its part in WA’s energy transition, we need connection, consultation and real investment.”
Ms Warr vowed to continue to fight to ensure the region was not left behind, and encouraged stakeholders, local governments, industry, and the community to make a submission to the State Government’s Community Benefits draft guideline.
