Project overview
In 2020 and 2021, we met with the Exmouth community to explore and collaborate on future energy needs. Since then, we’ve been working to deliver more renewable energy as part of transitioning to a cleaner energy system in line with the WA Government decarbonisation targets.
The Exmouth Power Project includes:
- A solar farm (with ground-mounted solar PV cells)
- Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
- Intergration with the thermal power plant to ensure reliable power is always available.
With key stakeholders' support, we've now entered the project's delivery phase. Construction begins soon, bringing clean, reliable renewable energy to the Exmouth community.
Exmouth
Commenced in 2020
Completed 2026
Project Timeline
We spoke to members of the Exmouth community, our customers, environmental groups, government agencies, independent power producers and tourism businesses. These discussions helped to shape our plans, products and services.
In January 2023, the Exmouth Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) was installed and commissioned.
The BESS is located at the Exmouth Power Station and is able to store more than 2,000kW of excess solar generated by rooftop solar in the area.
For the remaining renewable energy solutions, the integrated resource planning (IRP) process is now complete and the Exmouth Power Project has entered a defining stage.
The final steps to acquire land for the solar farm are complete. We've also undertaken and completed the tender process for system delivery. Following advice from local Traditional Owners, we've named the project. The word 'Jirndal' (pronounced "jeer - en - dahl"), meaning 'sun' in Baiyungu, now represents the Exmouth Power Project's Jirndal Solar Farm.
In 2025, construction and integrating the solar farm and battery energy storage system with the existing power station will begin.
New renewable energy options for Exmouth
We spoke with the Exmouth community about some different options which will be available as part of the new energy system. Based on feedback from your community, we’ve been working hard to develop more ways to increase renewable energy for a cleaner future.
Sunshine Saver is on the horizon
Sunshine Saver is designed to help eligible customers to save on their energy bills and share in the benefits of our investment in local renewable energy across WA. Sunshine Saver will be offered to eligible members of the Exmouth community when your new Exmouth Power Project is complete.
What does this mean for the community?
Cleaner, greener
The Exmouth Power Project aims to deliver 80% renewable energy to Exmouth by 2026.
Renewable energy
Our new products and solutions help even more households and businesses in Exmouth tap into the benefits of renewable energy.
Greater reliability
More efficient power solutions means the system is more reliable and secure for everyone.
FAQs
Pacific Energy estimates the solar farm will take about 17 months to build. This spans from early work to full operation.
- Civil work is scheduled during the first quarter of 2025.
- Site fencing will then begin, restricting access but protecting key areas.
- Between April to May 2025, about 40 trucks will deliver materials, including solar panels.
Construction will begin in April and should wrap up by mid-2026.
Truck movements for civil works will start in early 2025 and last about three months. Pacific Energy expects this to affect some travel routes, particularly Minilya - Exmouth and Murat Roads, as well as the turn offs at Reid and Welch Streets.
In April 2025, the company anticipates increased truck activity as solar panels and materials are brought in.
Pacific Energy plans to finish all major deliveries before Exmouth’s tourist season starts. A 30-person project team will be in town during peak construction. They will be bussed to the site to minimise local traffic disruption.
Water suppression will be used to manage dust during the clearing and construction phases. Construction noise will be restricted to Monday to Saturday, between 6am and 6pm.
Horizon Power acknowledges the Traditional Custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this website may contain images, names or voices of deceased people.