Frontier Energy unveils an ambitious multi-stage expansion of its Waroona Renewable Energy Project, targeting 1GW of solar and 660MW of battery storage to support Western Australia’s coal phase-out.
- Targeting ~1GW solar and ~660MW battery storage by 2031
- Expansion leverages existing grid connections, avoiding costly transmission upgrades
- Stage One (120MW solar, 81.5MW battery) aims for October 2027 operation
- Stage Two (~120MW solar, ~80MW battery) has development approval, revenue certainty targeted in 2026
- Aligned with WA’s retirement of 1.3–1.7GW coal and gas assets
A Strategic Leap in WA’s Energy Transition
Frontier Energy Limited (ASX, FHE) has announced a bold expansion plan for its Waroona Renewable Energy Project, aiming to transform it into the Waroona Energy Park; a sprawling renewable precinct in southwest Western Australia. The company’s vision targets up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of solar energy generation paired with approximately 660 megawatts (MW) of battery storage capacity by 2031. This scale positions Waroona Energy Park as a cornerstone in replacing retiring coal and gas power plants in the region.
Unlike many renewable projects that hinge on costly and time-consuming grid infrastructure upgrades, Frontier’s strategy capitalises on its existing grid connection and substantial freehold landholding of 830 hectares. This approach promises a faster, more cost-effective pathway to market, a critical advantage as Western Australia accelerates its energy transition.
Phased Development with Clear Milestones
The expansion unfolds in multiple stages. Stage One, featuring 120MW of solar and 81.5MW of battery storage, is on track for commercial operations by October 2027. Stage Two, of similar scale, already holds development approval and aims to secure revenue certainty in 2026, underpinning its financing and construction. Frontier is actively progressing feasibility studies, environmental approvals, and power purchase agreements to support this next phase.
Looking further ahead, Stages Three and Four propose significant scale-ups, with solar capacity increasing to around 760MW and battery storage expanding to between 440MW and 480MW. While these later stages require additional land acquisition and regulatory approvals, the company has commenced discussions and preparatory work to maintain momentum.
Aligning with WA’s Coal Retirement and Grid Plans
The timing of Frontier’s expansion aligns closely with Western Australia’s planned retirement of 1.3 to 1.7GW of ageing coal and gas generation assets by 2031. The Australian Energy Market Operator’s 2025 Electricity Statement of Opportunities highlights this significant capacity gap, which Frontier’s project is well positioned to fill.
Importantly, Waroona Energy Park’s proximity; just 0.5km from the Landwehr Terminal substation; means it can connect into the existing grid infrastructure without waiting for major transmission expansions. This contrasts with other projects dependent on the Clean Energy Link North transmission line, scheduled for completion in 2027 at a cost of $1.2 billion. Frontier’s existing electricity transfer access contract with Western Power further cements its ability to deliver power into the Southwest Interconnected System efficiently.
A Key Player in WA’s Renewable Future
Frontier’s CEO Adam Kiley emphasised the project’s strategic importance, "Waroona Energy Park will become a key pillar of WA’s energy transition and the key driver of long-term value creation for Frontier’s shareholders." The company’s integrated solar and battery approach not only supports grid stability but also aligns with government ambitions to phase out coal-fired power faster than any other state.
With a seasoned team, secured land, grid connections, and a clear roadmap, Frontier Energy is poised to deliver a renewable energy precinct that could reshape the energy landscape of Western Australia.
Bottom Line?
Frontier’s Waroona expansion could redefine WA’s energy mix, next steps hinge on Stage Two financing and regulatory progress.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Frontier secure the necessary power purchase agreements to guarantee Stage Two revenue?
- How will future grid expansions or policy changes impact the later stages of Waroona Energy Park?
- What are the timelines and risks associated with land acquisition for Stages Three and Four?