Frontier Energy Appoints Monford as EPC Contractor with $5 Million Equity Deal

Monford Joins Waroona Project as EPC Contractor with Equity Participation

Frontier Energy (ASX:FHE) has formalised a significant step in delivering its Waroona Renewable Energy Project by appointing Monford Group as the fixed-price Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor for Stage One’s solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) facility. Notably, Monford has agreed to reduce its cash payment by $5 million in exchange for 25 million Frontier shares, effectively becoming a project shareholder and aligning its interests with Frontier’s long-term success.

Strong Track Record and Risk Mitigation Through Early Involvement

The appointment follows a completed Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase, which helped define the project scope and design, reducing execution risks ahead of construction. Monford’s credentials include delivering several large-scale renewable projects across Australia, such as the Cunderdin 128MWdc solar and 55MW BESS project in Western Australia, closely mirroring the Waroona setup. Other notable projects include the Glenellen and Merredin Solar Farms, demonstrating Monford’s comprehensive expertise in solar and battery hybrid infrastructure.

Construction Timeline and Project Development Progress

Monford has already started detailed design and mobilisation preparations under an interim agreement, with full site mobilisation expected by September 2026. The contract covers delivery through to commissioning of a fully operational, grid-connected facility targeted for the second half of 2028. Meanwhile, Frontier has advanced critical development workstreams, including Western Power’s interconnection tender, substation EPC activities with Global Power Services, and procurement of long-lead items like transformers and substation equipment.

Financial Backing and Strategic Alignment

The EPC contract award follows Frontier securing binding credit-approved senior debt commitments for Stage One, underpinning the project’s financial foundation. Executive Chairman Jamie Cullen highlighted Monford’s equity subscription as a “strong alignment of interests” and a “positive endorsement” of the project’s quality and potential. Monford’s CEO Ciaran Shannon echoed this sentiment, emphasising the contractor’s confidence in Frontier’s vision and the strategic value of their shareholder position.