Nationals WA promise to create regional microgrids to improve reliability, Mullewa to be pilot if elected

The WA Nationals say they will provide long-term stability to regional areas through microgrids if they form government in 2025, with a Mid West town set to be the pilot for the program.

Party leader Shane Love was in Geraldton on Tuesday to make the announcement, which would see regions provided with energy stability while helping support the country reducing emissions.

Mr Love said solutions were needed, with regional towns frequently experiencing power disruptions.

“Reliable energy provision is the cornerstone of any modern economy, powering industries, businesses, schools, health facilities, and communities,” he said.

“We depend on low-cost, reliable electricity for essential services such as refrigeration, technology, telecommunications, petrol pumps, manufacturing, and water supply.

“By leveraging advancements in technology, microgrids can minimise disruptions, improve reliability, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.”

As part of the program, Mullewa would be focus for the initial trial, with the area experiencing regular power failure.

The pilot project would cost $3 million, and it was understood that a feasibility study had previously taken place in the area, to ensure the project could take place there.

Mr Love said it could be implemented depending on the capacity of Western Power.

“I’ve spoken to proponents who are ready to go. It’s technology which is well understood by many people around the world and I’m very confident that we could have this solution in place very, very quickly,” he said.

Nationals candidate for Geraldton Kirrilee Warr said she had spoken to locals in the region who needed more reliability.

“Living in this community, I personally understand what it means to live through power outages and power blackouts, and the constituents I talk to say it’s an ongoing concern, in particular around healthcare, emergency medical status, and also businesses being able to conduct their business,” she said.

“I think (microgrids) is an absolute game changer in ensuring that they can continue to operate their businesses and their homes during a height of what is sometimes the hottest on Earth.”