Federal Investment Spurs Call for State Action
On May 2, 2026, the Federal Government announced its investment in 10 renewable energy projects in Western Australia. This initiative aims to accelerate the state’s shift from fossil fuels. Federal Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, Assistant Minister Josh Wilson, and WA Minister for Energy and Decarbonisation Amber-Jade Sanderson outlined their support through the Albanese Government’s Capacity Investment Scheme, raising the total number of projects in WA to 14 out of 79 nationwide.
Greenpeace Australia Pacific applauded this federal move but urged the Western Australian Cook Government to establish a Renewable Energy Target. According to Geoff Bice, WA Campaign Lead at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, “This commitment to accelerating the roll-out of renewable energy in WA by the Albanese and Cook Governments is an example of positive action for WA’s transition to cheap, clean, reliable energy.”
Push for State-Level Commitment
Despite federal support, the Cook Government’s commitment to a Renewable Energy Target remains absent. Greenpeace expressed concerns about the state’s continued backing of fossil fuel ventures, like Woodside’s Browse gas project, which they view as outdated and polluting.
Significantly, more than 500,000 WA households have installed rooftop solar panels, reflecting strong grassroots support for renewable energy. Bice pointed out, “We have more than enough clean sun and wind to power the entire WA economy.” This ample resource base, he argued, should encourage the WA Government to adopt a strong Renewable Energy Target, particularly for the South West Interconnected System grid.
“The investment of federal funding should give the WA Government greater confidence,” Bice stated, urging a commitment to a Renewable Energy Target. He added, “There is still more to be done. WA can become a renewable energy powerhouse with ongoing investment at a state and federal level in transmission, renewable energy projects, and green commodities across the state.”
Greenpeace continues to advocate for the elimination of coal and gas, urging both the Cook and Albanese Governments to enact decisive measures to advance the energy transition in WA. The organisation insists that Western Australians deserve prompt and decisive action to align with the inevitable and vital energy transition.
