Learn About the Energy Transition
The transition to renewables is the most significant change to Western Australia’s energy systems in over 50 years. It is a task of unprecedented scale, but we have the ingredients to succeed – strong solar and wind resources, an abundance of natural gas, a skilled workforce and strong economy.
Why is the energy transition happening?
Modernising our energy systems will cut emissions and deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable power to meet growing demand for electricity. Investing in new energy generation, storage and transmission projects will also create jobs, attract investment and strengthen WA’s position as a global energy and resources leader. Once complete, the energy transition will mean cleaner, stronger and smarter energy systems for all Western Australians.
Demand is rising
Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are placing more pressure on our electricity systems, as more WA households use energy-intensive appliances like air conditioners to cope with longer, hotter summers. At the same time, our State’s economy is growing – meaning more energy demand from new and growing sectors.
Phasing out coal
Retiring the remaining State-owned coal power plants as they approach the end of their operational lives is essential to reducing our State’s emissions and maintaining affordable energy and a secure electricity system. As coal is gradually phased out, there are significant opportunities for the new renewable generation and energy storage projects that we need to power our economy, households and communities.
Reliable energy
To ensure we have reliable energy, we need our wind and solar farms to be spread widely across different locations. Having a spread of geographically diverse renewable generation, supported by energy storage and flexible gas generation, will make sure our energy systems are strong and secure.
What types of technologies are we using?
The focus is on wind and solar farms, flexible gas generation and energy storage developments, with large-scale projects being built right across the State. Once complete, these projects will power our homes, communities, businesses and industries with reliable, low emissions energy.
Wind Energy
Wind farms are made up of wind turbines, spread out over a large area, which capture energy from the wind and convert it to electricity. As the wind pushes the turbine blades they move a generator, producing energy. One wind turbine can produce enough electricity to power up to 2,000 average households every year.
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Solar Energy
A solar farm generates renewable energy in the same way that rooftop solar works for homes and businesses, with solar panels converting sunlight into electricity - but at an enormous scale. Transmission lines then transport this electricity to where it is needed.
Flexible Gas Generation
Flexible gas-fired generation can be turned on quickly if renewable generation slows due to the weather or if energy demand suddenly increases. This makes it an essential back-up as coal is phased out and new renewable generation and energy storage projects come online.
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Energy Storage
Battery energy storage systems store energy so it can be used when it is needed. They capture electricity generated by wind and solar during peak periods, like during the day when the Sun is shining brightest, and release it when it is needed.
Transmission
Transmission lines move electricity from where it is generated to where it is used, including our homes, communities and businesses. We can’t connect new renewable projects without transmission - and we can’t power new industries without it either.
How long will the transition take?
The shift to renewable energy isn't the same as just flicking a switch – it is a phased journey, supported by pragmatic and methodical planning. So, while you’ll see more renewable projects appearing every year, the full transition will unfold step by step over the next 20–30 years, making sure WA’s power stays reliable and affordable as we move toward our cleaner, smarter energy future.