Vestas and its partners, CWP Energy Asia and InterContinental Energy, have announced plans to build a 6GW wind and solar hybrid power plant in East Pilbara region, Western Australia.

The project, known as Asian Renewable Energy Hub (AREH), will feature 4GW of wind and 2GW of solar generation. It also includes two subsea power cables from Australia to Jakarta, Indonesia and Singapore.

The project will be built in phases, with first phase planned to be developed with an estimated investment of $10bn.

Vestas said that the project would export the reliable and cost-competitive electricity to Indonesia to help meet its energy demand and address energy security challenges.

The subsequent phases of the project would potentially supply renewable energy to other countries in South East Asia, the firm said.

Vestas Asia Pacific president Clive Turton said: “The Asian Renewable Energy Hub can compete over the long-term as a cost-effective means of supplying energy.

“It can also provide the foundation for a strong Indonesian renewable energy technology manufacturing hub, driving investment, job creation and a local value-added supply chain.”

The partners are currently undertaking onshore and offshore development studies for the AREH, which is scheduled to be commissioned by 2025.

CWP Energy Asia managing director Alexander Hewitt said: “Given the increasing ability to move energy over long distances, the Asia Renewable Energy Hub is a compelling proposition for Indonesia – not only for supplying the energy, but for the economic benefits that come with establishing manufacturing facilities in Indonesia.“

Vestas said that the partners have also submitted the scheme for environmental review in Australia.

With an operational life of 60 years, the AREH is expected to export over 15TWh of clean electricity every year.


Image: Indonesia intends to meet its power demands and address energy security challenges. Photo: courtesy of franky242/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net.