Wind is powering our way to net zero
The biggest issue we face is the impact of climate change. Declining rainfall and a growing population have affected where our drinking water comes from. Desalinated seawater is a rainfall-independent water source. Around half of Perth’s drinking water comes from the Indian Ocean. But treating seawater to remove salt and impurities is energy intensive.
To help protect our environment, we are striving for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035. Today we’re excited to announce a significant step on this journey.
The benefits of big fans
We have secured a quarter of the clean energy needed to reach our carbon neutral target.
Water Corporation are now the proud developers of Flat Rocks Wind Farm Stage 2. One of the largest wind energy projects in WA will be built 30km from Kojonup.
The renewable energy produced will help meet the clean energy needs of our Perth and Peel seawater desalination plants by 2026. This includes the needs of our future desalination plant proposed in Alkimos!
A field of energy for Perth
There will be up to 24 of some of the largest turbines in the state at Flat Rocks Stage 2. Each of these stand 200m tall. Together, they will produce up to 100MW of renewable energy by 2026.
To put this into perspective, that’s enough power to sustainably provide water to 640,000 homes annually. The wind farm will allow us to transition out of non-renewable power generation.
Wind today, green tomorrow
Delivering water and wastewater services with renewable energy is essential.
We have undertaken extensive due diligence to ensure this project supports our ambitions. And now, Flat Rocks Stage 2 brings us a step closer to manufacturing drinking water while being net zero.
We are working with Western Power, Synergy, the community and other partners to complete the project. The wind farm also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across government. This is in line with the 80% net zero emissions goal across all sectors of the economy by 2050.
Winds of change continue
Our journey to sustainably deliver drinking water to our people doesn't stop here. We’ve put just as much energy into finding other ways to reduce, recover and recycle. From resource recovery to liveability, we are determined to see our state thrive.
Learn more about climate change and water.