Western Australia targets renewable energy shift and data centre growth

Western Australian Premier Roger Cook has outlined the state’s energy and economic strategy, focusing on a transition to renewables and the potential for high-tech infrastructure development.

Regarding energy, the state aims to end state-owned coal-fired power generation by 2030. Renewable generation in the Southwest Interconnected System has increased from 14% in 2017 to 40% in 2025. To support this, the government is fast-tracking wind developments and building transmission networks, including the Clean Energy Link North and East projects.

Additionally, Cook revealed that AI and data centre developers have approached the government with proposals to build facilities in the Mid West and North West regions. These areas are attractive due to their availability of land and power, as well as their connectivity via optic fibre cables. While presenting a significant economic opportunity, Cook noted that maintaining a social licence and managing water resources remain ongoing challenges.