Fortescue solar project in Pilbara under EPA review process

Australia-based Fortescue proposed a solar generation hub to power its mining operations in the Pilbara, about 120 km south of Port Hedland, within the Kariyarra Native Title determination area. The project involved solar panels, a 644 MW substation, and 220 kV transmission line spurs linking to Fortescue’s Pilbara Energy Connect (PEC) network. It covered 1,416.6 ha, with up to 1,108.2 ha of native vegetation marked for clearing. Electricity would feed into the North Star Junction substation. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) sought public comment on whether to assess the proposal and the appropriate level of assessment.