Rio Tinto and YEC will study and evaluate a range of opportunities including wind and solar power as well as battery energy storage systems. The initial focus is on rapidly exploring the potential development of a solar power generation facility for the supply of energy to Rio Tinto.
Rio Tinto operates four gas-fired power stations in the Pilbara. About 600MW to 700MW of renewable generation is estimated to be required to displace the majority of gas use across its network. The company is currently assessing the development of approximately 300MW of solar projects. The collaboration opportunities currently being explored by Rio Tinto and YEC if progressed, would be complementary to renewable energy developments on Rio Tinto Iron Ore's electricity grid.
YEC was established in June following an agreement between
YEC's initial plans include a Stage 1 target of 750MW of combined wind, solar, and battery storage with construction to commence within the next few years. The collaboration opportunities being considered by Rio Tinto and YEC relate to some of these Stage 1 projects.
YAC Chief Executive
'This will strengthen our existing partnership and provide long term benefits for our community, while also ensuring that we can protect and preserve the areas of cultural, spiritual and environmental significance within our 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
'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 be deepening our partnership with the Yindjibarndi People through this agreement and look forward to working closely with them.
'We recognise 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.'
Notes to editors
Rio Tinto has committed to reducing its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030 across its global operations, with an estimated
Rio Tinto's rail network, which connects its Pilbara mines to ports at
Last year, Rio Tinto and YAC signed an updated agreement aimed at strengthening ties and delivering improved social and economic outcomes for the Yindjibarndi people. The agreement reflects a joint commitment to work together to create more opportunities for the Yindjibarndi people to participate in Rio Tinto's operations, including direct and indirect employment opportunities, and build sustainable long-term benefits to the community.
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