Construction has begun on the Jinbi Solar Project in Western Australia after Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation secured a deal and a 30-year power purchase agreement with Rio Tinto.
The 75 MWac (Megawatt alternating current) facility – with an option to expand to 150 MWac – will supply electricity to Rio Tinto’s iron ore operations in the Pilbara region once it reaches commercial operations, currently scheduled for mid-2028. A battery energy storage system may be added subject to regulatory approvals.
Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC) was established three years ago as a partnership between Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation and ACEN Corporation, a Philippines-based renewable energy developer. Jinbi is the company’s first project to reach financial close.
Under the power purchase agreement, YEC will supply 100% of the electricity generated by Jinbi to Rio Tinto for the duration of the 30-year term. Early site works are already underway, with Yurra – a Yindjibarndi Nation enterprise – carrying out preparation and mobilisation activities. YEC has issued notices to proceed to EPC contractor DT Infrastructure and construction accommodation provider Rapid Camps.
Craig Ricato, chief executive officer of YEC, said: “Reaching financial close on our first project in the Pilbara within three years of the partnership’s operation is a significant milestone for YEC and our shareholders, the Yindjibarndi Traditional Owners and ACEN.
“It confirms that a Yindjibarndi-led project, grounded in country and culture, can meet the rigorous commercial requirements of the energy market while staying true to our values and governance responsibilities.”
Ricato added that financial close was one step in a broader development pathway. “This milestone enables us to immediately progress with the construction phase of the project,” he said. “All subsequent stages will continue to proceed deliberately and in accordance with regulatory requirements, approvals and ongoing engagement processes, with commercial operations expected to commence in mid-2028.”
Culturally grounded
Michael Woodley, chief executive officer of Yindjibarndi Nation, said: “Jinbi is about more than a renewable energy project – it is about Yindjibarndi people exercising authority on country and building an economic future that reflects our law, culture and responsibilities.
“Reaching financial close demonstrates that when development is Yindjibarndi-led, underpinned by strong governance and the right partnerships, it can deliver outcomes that are both commercially sound and culturally grounded.”
Matthew Holcz, chief executive of Rio Tinto Iron Ore, said: “We’re proud to be part of the Jinbi project, which reflects years of work by many and led by the Yindjibarndi People. Developing renewable energy on Yindjibarndi Country, in partnership with its Traditional Custodians, creates enduring value – supporting our operations while contributing to long-term economic opportunities on Country.”
Patrice Clausse, group chief investment officer of ACEN, said: “Jinbi demonstrates what is possible when Traditional Owner leadership, long-term vision and disciplined project development come together. ACEN is proud to partner with Yindjibarndi on a project that meets rigorous commercial standards while setting a strong benchmark for responsible and respectful renewable energy development in Australia.”
Image credit: lightrain/Shutterstock
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