Planning for the Pilbara's energy future
We're focused on delivering energy solutions for the Pilbara that are reliable and affordable—while also reducing carbon emissions to support a cleaner, more sustainable future.
In the Pilbara, the Northwest Interconnected System (NWIS) powers the coastal towns of Karratha, Roebourne, Point Samson and Port Hedland.
Our generation supply agreement with a gas-fired Karratha power station ends in April 2030, so we are seeking input on reliable, affordable, lower-emissions energy options for the region.
This project supports Western Australia’s 2030 and 2050 decarbonisation targets.
Pilbara
In progress
Driving lower emissions
How does the Pilbara’s NWIS work?
Horizon Power owns and maintains a portion of the NWIS in the Pilbara, known as the ‘Horizon Power Pilbara coastal network’. It includes generation, transmission, and distribution assets connecting Port Hedland and Karratha.
The network links to the NWIS and operates alongside separately owned private industry networks.
Horizon Power has existing gas-fired generation supply agreements in place with Independent Power Providers (IPPs) in the Pilbara.
What's happening now?
Horizon Power has opened expressions of interest (EOI) calling for suitably qualified Independent Power Providers (IPPs) to propose new solutions to supply the region from 2030 – to ensure reliable supply, reduce emissions and drive the lowest generation costs in the region.
EOI respondents proposing a renewable energy solution and the ability to secure suitable land will be viewed favourably.
Procurement will prioritise local outcomes to maximise supplier involvement in the Pilbara's energy sector, aligning with the recent WA Industry Participation Strategy Ministerial Direction for energy Government Trading Enterprises.
We've completed an EOI process to help inform future energy supply options for the Pilbara. We are now progressing the next stage of procurement to support reliable electricity supply for communities and industry from 2030.
The project is being delivered through a staged procurement approach, with separate procurement and delivery streams to balance reliability, growth readiness and long-term energy supply objectives. This approach supports a reliable energy supply while creating opportunities to grow renewable energy over time.
What's happening and when?
Here's a high level timeline of what to expect, subject to change as the project progresses.
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.