ACEN, Rio Tinto Explore Partnership On Renewable Energy

ACEN, through its subsidiary, Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Rio Tinto to explore collaboration opportunities on renewable energy projects within Yindjibarndi country in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

The collaboration opportunities being explored by Rio Tinto and YEC, if progressed, will complement the renewable energy developments on Rio Tinto Iron Ore's electricity grid. I Photo: Yindjibarndi Energy

Rio Tinto and YEC will study and evaluate various opportunities, including wind and solar power, as well as battery energy storage systems. The initial focus is on quickly exploring the potential development of a solar power generation facility to supply energy to Rio Tinto.

Rio Tinto currently operates four gas-fired power stations in the Pilbara. It is estimated that about 600 MW to 700 MW of renewable generation is required to replace the majority of gas usage across its network.

The company is presently assessing the development of approximately 300 MW of solar projects.

The collaboration opportunities being explored by Rio Tinto and YEC, if progressed, will complement the renewable energy developments on Rio Tinto Iron Ore's electricity grid.

YEC was established in June following an agreement between Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) and ACEN to advance the development of major renewable energy projects on Yindjibarndi Ngurra (country), covering an area of approximately 13,000 km2 within the Yindjibarndi Native Title Determination Areas.

YEC's initial plans include a Stage 1 target of 750 MW of combined wind, solar, and battery storage, with construction set to begin in the next few years.

The collaboration opportunities being considered by Rio Tinto and YEC are related to some of these Stage 1 projects.

ACEN International CEO Patrice Clausse stated, "This MOU signifies more than just a partnership; it's a testament to the shared vision of sustainable energy development on Yindjibarndi Ngurra. It is the perfect blend of traditional significance and modern technology, designed to harness the limitless potential of the Pilbara's sun and wind while respecting the deep-rooted connection of the Yindjibarndi people with their land. Together, we are crafting an energy future that is not only renewable but also renewing, by empowering local communities and contributing to a greener future."

Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive Simon Trott added, "We are focused on repowering our Pilbara operations with renewable energy through the end of this decade and beyond by replacing gas and diesel with clean energy alternatives. The Pilbara is blessed with abundant year-round sunshine and strong winds at night, making it one of the most attractive places in the world to harness solar and wind power for energy generation. We're excited to deepen our partnership with the Yindjibarndi People through this agreement and look forward to working closely with them."

"We recognize that we have a large carbon footprint in the Pilbara and are exploring a number of innovative solutions to help address this, including future collaborations with other Traditional Owner groups in the region."

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