Western Australia has outlined a major grid expansion to fast-track renewable energy generation.

The state says its new plan could see more than two gigawatts of new capacity unlocked before 2030.

The South West Interconnected System [SWIS] Transmission Plan outlines staged upgrades across the grid to support the phase-out of coal, electrification of industry, and the development of new clean-energy industries.

Phase one works will target the Kwinana Strategic Industrial Area (SIA) and Western Trade Coast, Coolangatta Industrial Estate, and Kemerton SIA.

These projects are designed to deliver 1,500 megawatts of new capacity to underpin industrial growth, with Coolangatta also flagged as a key element of the Collie Just Transition.

Phase two will extend upgrades to Chittering, Moora, Collie, and metropolitan Perth, while phase three focuses on expanding Western Power’s network to enable new green industries.

“The SWIS Transmission Plan is our blueprint for infrastructure upgrades that will support our energy transition and ensure WA becomes a renewable energy powerhouse,” said Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said.

“We’ve taken our long-term vision for the SWIS and mapped the transmission needed to deliver it.”

To ensure the benefits extend beyond energy supply, the WA Government will issue new Directions to Western Power, Synergy and Horizon Power requiring procurement processes that prioritise local industry participation.

“The Cook Government is also backing our manufacturing sector,” Sanderson said.

“I will issue new Directions to Western Power, Synergy, and Horizon Power to ensure Western Australian businesses and workers benefit from the pipeline of work that will flow from the SWIS upgrade for years to come.”

The Transmission Plan is framed as the “backbone” of WA’s clean energy transition, enabling decarbonisation across heavy industry while maintaining cost-competitive energy access for households and businesses.

In a parallel move, governance of WA’s largest energy utility is being bolstered.

Former State Minister and Legislative Council leader Sue Ellery has been appointed to Synergy’s Board as a non-executive director for a three-year term. Her appointment follows the addition of Treasury Corporation chief executive Kaylene Gulich last month.

“As one of the most experienced and respected leaders in the State, Sue Ellery’s insights and experience will be invaluable to Synergy,” Sanderson said.