Fortescue Metals Group has proposed a 644 MW solar farm in Western Australia to decarbonize its iron ore mining operations in Port Hedland.

The Turner River Solar Hub (TRSH) will consist of solar panels, a substation, and transmission lines that will connect to Fortescue’s Pilbara Energy Connect grid. This development follows the anticipated completion of Phase 1 in 2024, which will feature a 100 MW solar farm along with 140 km of transmission lines and substations. The $6.2 billion initiative aims to achieve 2-3 GW of renewable energy by 2030, effectively eliminating 2.4 million tons of emissions without relying on offsets.

The proposal is currently undergoing public consultation until April 3, 2025, in collaboration with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).