Proposed Derby tidal energy project could slash Kimberley power bills by more than 50 per cent

The cost of electricity generation in the Kimberley could be slashed by up to 60 per cent under a proposed tidal power project in Derby, which is moving towards final approvals. The $375 million Derby Tidal Energy Project has been 30 years in the making and would see a tidal power station built across the mouth of Doctor’s Creek near the town. The project could drastically reduce the cost of energy across the West Kimberley, with estimates stating the project would mean a maximum price of 22¢ per kilowatt hour of electricity, compared with current market prices that range from 26¢-60¢/kWh. The cost to produce electricity has been found to be as high as $1.20/kWh in some areas of the West Kimberley. The Derby Tidal Project’s production cost was estimated to be between 1¢/kWh and 4¢/kWh. The project was tipped to meet the current power demands of Derby, with excess to supply local mines, feedlots, abattoirs, aquaculture ventures and other commercial operations. Here Business & Wealth corporate adviser Bruce Mitchell said the project was significant for Derby. “The final step is to get Commonwealth EPA approval. Once we have it the project will go ahead,” he said. “The Derby supply will be online from 2034, after existing power supply contracts expire. Similar projects have been running for years in South Korea, Germany and France —- they are extremely successful.” Shire of Derby president Geoff Haerewa said he was excited to see the project moving towards final approvals. “The project will create hundreds of jobs for local people while in the construction phase and ... a significant boost to local industry post-construction and throughout its operation.” “It will be a major tourist attraction as an aesthetic lake would be created. It will be a shining example of what Australia can achieve in the renewable energy and technology space. “It will put Derby on the map.” When the project resurfaced under the Barnett government in 2013, questions were raised about the impact construction may have on Derby’s mangrove ecosystem and on local fish populations. Mr Mitchell said studies, due to be presented to the EPA, would prove environmental impacts would not be of concern.