We’re proposing to build the power station on Mimegarra Road in Cataby, about 150km drive north of Perth in the Shire of Dandaragan.
Subject to approvals, the project is planned to begin operating in late 2028 and be fully completed in 2029.
Gas power stations typically have an operational life of 20+ years, but the speed of the energy transition will ultimately determine the commercial life span of the power station.
To help future proof the asset, it is being designed to be ‘hydrogen ready’, so it could transition to blended hydrogen fuel in the future, utilising a more renewable resource.
The proposed Cataby Power Station would have a capacity of up to 400 megawatts (MW). It’s designed to provide fast‑start, on‑demand electricity to support grid reliability and back up renewable energy when it is needed.
At the end of the commercial life span of the power station, it will be safely decommissioned.
Alinta Energy. You can read more about Alinta Energy on our website.
New gas generation will be critical as coal-fired generation retires. Gas power stations can start within minutes and operate at a range of outputs to match demand. This makes them well suited to complement variable renewables such as wind and solar, and to provide longer-duration supply than batteries.
The proposed power station will bridge gaps in renewables production, ensuring a reliable electricity supply for homes and businesses.
To find out more about the project or provide feedback, please get in touch via futurepower@alintaenergy.com.au or 0428 447 824.
As the project progresses, we’ll set up communication and engagement channels including information sessions. You’re welcome to call or email at any time.
We’ll consult with the community on the creation of a benefit sharing program, based on local needs.
Our existing Yandin Wind Farm, a RATCH Australia and Alinta Energy investment managed by Alinta Energy, has funded over $380,000 locally since 2019.
Projects have included:
Power stations projects generate economic benefits in the community and wider region during construction and throughout the life of their operation. Common benefits are a demand for local goods, services and accommodation.
The project will need a variety of local contractors to support the construction and operations. If you want to express an interest for your business, please get in contact via futurepower@alintaenergy.com.au or 0428 447 824.
The video below is from one of our projects currently under construction in South Australia.
We’re in the process of speaking with close-by neighbours. If you live close to the project area and would like to find out more, please contact us via futurepower@alintaenergy.com.au or 0428 447 824.
The project has undergone detailed risk assessments, including a hazard analysis undertaken as part of the Development Application. Along with environmental studies, these assessments inform the design and operation of the site, including building design, hazardous goods storage and emissions controls. Fire safety is built into every part of the design. The site will include:
A power station requires both planning and environmental approvals before it can be constructed. Environmental licences and permits are also required before the plant can operate.
Development approval is required typically through either the Shire or the Western Australian Planning Commission. These applications need to meet the requirements of Western Australia’s planning legislation and particularly looks at managing impacts to local communities.
In Western Australia, projects that are likely to have a significant impact on the environment are assessed and regulated by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), with assessment undertaken by scientific and administrative support the from Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER).
Currently, specialist studies and Environmental Impacts Assessment documentation must be provided to demonstrate all the efforts undertaken, or proposed to be undertaken, to understand the environmental and social context of the area.
Commonwealth approval requirements may apply to the project if Matters of National Environmental Significance are impacted.
Each project will have different environmental considerations. A range of environmental studies are undertaken by independent experts to identify possible impacts. We use these studies to inform decisions about how to best design and construct the project.
Studies typically undertaken for a power station project include:
Alinta Energy acknowledges the Yued people of the land on which the project is being developed. We acknowledge their continuing connections to Country and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
