Renewable energy to be delivered to Kimberley remote communities after $27m funding injection

Three Kimberley remote communities have been selected for power system upgrades comprising renewable energy.

Embalgun, Kandiwal and Four Mile will be among the first of 13 communities to receive the upgrades which will roll out next year as part of Horizon Power’s ReGen program, after a $27 million funding boost from the State Government.

A further eight remote communities across WA will have their power systems upgraded to renewable power systems under the scheme. They are planned to be delivered in the 2027 financial year.

Horizon Power’s acting chief executive Krystal Skinner said the ReGen program will deliver safer, more reliable, and cleaner energy solutions to remote Aboriginal communities across WA.

“These upgrades not only enhance safety and reliability but also empower communities to shape their energy future,” she said.

“Horizon Power will continue working closely with traditional owners and local partners to deliver lasting benefits and build a brighter, more sustainable future for all Western Australians.”

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch said the upgrades would lower costs, reduce diesel dependency, and cut emissions while helping to “close the gap”.

It comes after new upgrades at Cockatoo Springs remote community delivered significant emissions reductions and reliance on diesel fuel generators.

Since the upgrades were completed in July, the community now operates on 63 per cent renewable energy with the upgrades estimated to cut diesel consumption and dependency by 35,000 litres per year — a reduction of 92 per cent.

The upgrades are also estimated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 91 tonnes per year.

Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the investment was ensuring renewable energy is available for all Western Australians, no matter where they live.

“As this renewables program expands, we will be another step closer to providing safer, more reliable, and equitable power solutions for First Nations people across WA,” she said.

Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna said the upgrades were improving everyday living conditions and reducing long-term costs for local families.

“I welcome Horizon Power’s continued work across the region, as these investments demonstrate the possibilities when we prioritise community safety, sustainability, and the wellbeing of people in remote communities,” she said.

Pilbara remote communities Marta Marta and Weymul will also get the renewable power upgrades.