Clean Energy Link – East announcement welcome but underpowered

The Shadow Minister for Energy Dr Steve Thomas has welcomed today’s announcement by the Government of a faster timeframe of works on the Clean Energy Link – East project, but has warned that more will be needed to deliver their clean energy transition.

“The accelerated timeframe for Clean Energy Link – East is welcome and represents recognition that the original transition plan could not deliver enough power or grid stability by the end of 2029” Dr Thomas said.

“The Clean Energy Link – East project was originally not due to commence construction until mid-2031, but the first stages will now apparently be complete by the end of 2029” Dr Thomas said.

“There remains a question mark however over whether the projects can be delivered in time and whether matching wind projects will be delivered on a matching timeframe.

“Any failure to deliver any of these components will make an extension of coal fired generation necessary to go with the additional peak gas generation already being planned.

“I think it is likely that a combination of all of these energy sources – coal, gas and renewables – will be needed until the mid-2030s to keep the lights on in Western Australia.

“The Clean Energy Link – North project announced in last year’s budget was originally due to be finished by the end of next year, but the scope of the project was way too small to deliver the Government’s energy transition by the end of 2029” Dr Thomas said.

“While today’s announcement is a welcome step in my view is not yet enough to deliver the energy transition proposed by the end of 2029.