Daily WA Electrical & Tech News Update – April 19, 2026
April 20, 2026
Daily WA Electrical & Tech News Update – April 21, 2026
April 23, 2026
Top WA Electrical and Tech News for April 20, 2026
Western Australia’s energy and technology sectors are buzzing with activity. Major renewable projects are being accelerated, groundbreaking tech infrastructure is planned for the remote north, and updated grid rules will soon shape how households connect solar and batteries. These stories from the past 24–48 hours highlight strong progress toward a smarter and more resilient energy system.
Plans Emerge for Australia’s Largest AI Data Centre in the Kimberley
A multi-billion-dollar joint venture plans to build a gigawatt-scale AI data centre south of Broome, powered largely by renewables. The project, known as Project Meridien, would support training of large AI models and demonstrates how clean energy can enable cutting-edge technology in regional WA. It includes significant Indigenous participation.
- Initial IT capacity of 240 MW, with potential to scale to 1 GW, powered by wind, solar, batteries and some natural gas
- Joint venture between Karajarri Traditional Owners (one-third partners), Fugro and Longreach Capital Investment
- Construction targeted for late 2029–early 2030
WA Government Fast-Tracks Four Major Wind Projects
The Cook Labor Government has granted priority status to four new wind farms totalling more than 1.3 GW under the State Development Act. These projects will help replace ageing coal generators and support the state’s target to exit coal by 2030, with streamlined approvals and grid connection support.
- Parron Maam Marang Wind Farm (470 MW) near Badgingarra
- Marri Wind Farm (up to 550 MW)
- Narrogin Wind Project (180 MW with potential battery)
- Kondinin Wind Farm (130 MW)
- Three projects backed by long-term agreements with Synergy and the Water Corporation
Fortescue Accelerates Pilbara Green Energy Grid
Mining giant Fortescue is fast-tracking its landmark off-grid renewable energy network in the Pilbara, bringing full completion forward to 2028 — two years ahead of schedule. The project will eliminate diesel and fossil fuels from its iron ore operations using a combination of solar, wind and massive battery storage.
- Planned capacity includes 1.2 GW solar, over 600 MW wind, and 4–5 GWh of battery storage
- First 290 MW of renewables expected operational by early 2027 to enable “green processing” during daylight hours
New Solar and Battery Connection Rules Start 1 May 2026
Western Power and Energy Policy WA are introducing updated requirements for all new and upgraded rooftop solar and battery systems connecting to the South West Interconnected System (SWIS). The changes aim to improve grid stability as renewable uptake continues to grow across Perth and regional areas.
- Inverter limits increase to 30 kVA for standard connections
- New “whole of site compliance” and commissioning rules introduced
- Systems installed and commissioned before 1 May 2026 will be grandfathered under the existing framework
These developments reflect Western Australia’s accelerating shift toward renewables, advanced technology infrastructure, and smarter grid management. With large-scale projects, innovative AI integration, and improved system rules, the state is well positioned to deliver a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
