Yindjibarndi Energy Corp. (YEC), the joint venture between ACEN Corp. and Australia’s First Nations Yindjibarndi indigenous people, is keen on pursuing further renewable energy (RE) projects in Western Australia.
YEC’s initial goal is to have 750 megawatts (MW) of combined wind, solar and battery storage under construction within the next few years, representing an investment of more than P36 billion.
Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, HK Yu, said in a statement the partnership’s move is also “fully aligned with the Strategic Partnership between Australia and the Philippines.”
After the initial 750 MW, YEC is eyeing to add 2,000 MW to 3,000 MW of combined wind, solar, and battery storage capacity.
Patrice Clausse, ACEN International chief executive officer, added the Australian Embassy in the Philippines is supporting the company with market information and opportunities.
“Australian investment advisors in the Philippines and (in) Australia are helping us keep up to date with developments in Australia’s growing renewable energy sector and sharing information on investment opportunities… They are also pivotal in helping us connect with government representatives at federal and state levels,” Clausse said.
Last October, YEC signed a memorandum of understanding with global mining firm, Rio Tinto to explore opportunities to collaborate on RE projects.
ACEN has established a solid footprint in Australia’s RE sector as YEC is not the first partnership it made with indigenous Australian people.
ACEN also previously partnered with the local Anaiwan people for the first stage of its New England solar project in New South Wales.
