Fortescue Proposes 644 MW Solar Farm for Australian Iron Ore Mine

Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 5, Fortescue Metals Group has put forward a plan to the Australian Environment Protection Authority for its 644 MW Turner River Solar Hub (TRSH) to supply energy to its iron ore mining operations near Port Hedland, Western Australia. The proposal, submitted by Fortescue’s subsidiary Pilbara Energy Generation (PEG), seeks approval for a site located 120 km south of Port Hedland within the Karawara Native Title determination area.

The TRSH project includes solar panels, a substation, and 220 kV transmission line spurs, along with supporting facilities such as roads and overhead electrical corridors. The electricity produced will feed into Fortescue’s integrated network through the Pilbara Energy Connect (PEC) North Star Junction substation, currently under construction as part of the broader Pilbara Transmission Project (PTP).

The PEC’s first phase, finalised in 2024, featured a 100 MW solar farm at North Star Junction, 140 km of transmission lines, and substations. Fortescue aims to install between 2 GW and 3 GW of renewable energy generation and battery storage by 2030, supporting its goal to phase out fossil fuels in its iron ore operations.

The Environment Protection Authority has made the TRSH proposal available for public consultation on its website, with feedback accepted until April 3, 2025. This step allows stakeholders to review and comment on the planned solar hub.

Fortescue’s broader strategy includes a AUD 6.2 billion ($3.9 billion) investment, announced in 2022, to transition its Australian iron ore operations away from fossil fuels by 2030. The company targets a reduction of its 2.4 million tons of annual emissions through renewable energy solutions, opting for a Real Zero approach rather than relying on carbon offsets.

A Fortescue representative stated: “This investment reflects our commitment to sustainable mining practices while maintaining operational efficiency.” The TRSH is a key part of this effort, enhancing the company’s renewable energy capacity in the Pilbara region.

By linking the TRSH to the PTP, Fortescue ensures a steady supply of clean energy for its mining activities. The project aligns with the company’s long-term vision of integrating large-scale solar power into its operations, reducing environmental impact while meeting energy demands. This initiative underscores Fortescue’s focus on innovation and sustainability in the iron ore sector.