Kalbarri top pick nationally for large-scale solar, wind farm

A patch of land just 12km north of Kalbarri has been picked as the best in Australia to host a large-scale solar and wind farm.

The project proponents are Hydrogen Renewables Australia (HRA) and multinational Siemens have engaged in the joint-venture with an aim to produce renewable hydrogen for potential export to Asia.

The historic Murchison House Station has been listed for the proposed farm, which will have the capacity to produce up to 5,000 MW through a combination of solar and wind power.

This week, HRA announced it had passed a “significant milestone” after entering into a Heritage Agreement with the local Nanda Aboriginal Corporation (NAC).

The corporation has given formal support for the Section 91 Licence, which is required to allow resource monitoring process to proceed.

An Indigenous Land Use Agreement will be developed by the pair and it is tipped for completion in 2020.

Hydrogen Renewables Australia executive chairman Terry Kallis said the farm would facilitate cost-effective production of green hydrogen for local industry and global export.

“We believe that Murchison Renewable Hydrogen Project’s location is the best in Australia for combined solar and wind, making it one of the most cost-effective spots to produce clean energy,” Mr Kallis said.

“This project will not only help local industry but also the growing demand for green hydrogen from Asian and other markets.”

Siemens Australia Pacific chief executive officer Jeff Connolly welcomed the focus on hydrogen in WA.

“Australia has potential like no other country in the world for hydrogen production and export – as long as we act upon the opportunity quickly,” Mr Connolly said.

“Not only Asia, but also Europe and other parts of the world are eyeing Australia as potential giant in hydrogen.”

Proponents have annouced a community engagement process will start in in Kalbarri during November 2019.