WA energy minister Peter Collier has launched the latest initiative in planning for the State’s future energy needs.

 

Minister Collier’s release of the Strategic Energy Initiative: Energy 2031 directions paper was a step towards establishing a 20-year vision for the State’s energy sector.

 

“Energy supply is crucial for economic development and our quality of life – energy is a large part of our everyday lives,” he said.
 
“However, the State lacks a cohesive, long-term energy policy, something which industry has been seeking for a number of years.
 
He claimed the Government’s vision for the next two decades paints a picture of an energy system to meet strategic goals of secure, reliable, competitive and cleaner energy for WA.
 
“As the State moves forward, it’s important we put in place the policy, regulatory and incentive mechanisms to ensure WA’s energy market will be dynamic, competitive and efficient,” Minister Collier said.
 
“This will ensure the State is an appealing destination for investment and innovation and an attractive place to live and do business.”
 
The directions paper proposes a series of strategies structured on six major themes; promoting security and diversity in energy supply and fuels; ensuring efficient provision and utilisation of energy infrastructure; improving the energy efficiency of the WA economy; maintaining continuity of downstream energy supply; ensuring effective and efficient downstream energy markets; and ensuring universal access to essential energy supplies.
 
The document was drafted by a team from the Office of Energy; department of State Development ; and department of Mines and Petroleum.

 

It was based on feedback from State-wide industry and community consultation forums held last year.
 
Public and industry comment inform the final recommendations to Government, with another series of workshops and forums planned, the Minister said.