WA Energy Minister Peter Collier has announced electricity supplies in the Pilbara will be increased with confirmation that work will begin soon on a new $125 million power project in South Hedland.

When completed in early 2014 and running at full capacity, the new power station would increase electricity generation capacity in the region by about 60 megawatts (MW). This is equal to half the electricity currently used in Karratha, Port Hedland, South Hedland, Point Samson and Roebourne.

“Rapid growth has required significant investment in power projects in both Karratha and South Hedland and this investment is in line with the Liberal National Government’s commitment to the region,” Mr Collier said.

“The Pilbara is the economic powerhouse of the nation and the State Government will continue to ensure the reliability and security of energy supplies to the region.”

The Minister said rapid expansion in the Pilbara, fuelled mainly by the resources boom, had seen high levels of residential, commercial and industrial growth.

“This has required the State Government to invest significantly in power projects for the region,” he said.

Forge Group Power Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract for the $125million project to be managed by Horizon Power.

Horizon Power has recently connected a 20MW generator to the North West Interconnected System in Karratha and is in the process of commissioning and testing this additional generation capacity.

The additional generation capacity to be located at Boodarie Industrial Estate, South Hedland.