The First Nations Yindjibarndi people of Australia have joined forces with Philippine renewables company ACEN to develop and operate renewable energy (RE) projects in Western Australia. This partnership is not only significant for the Yindjibarndi people but also marks one of the largest Indigenous-led RE initiatives in Australia, with a strong focus on sustainable development and economic opportunities.
The Australian Embassy in Manila has expressed its support for this collaboration, highlighting its alignment with the strategic partnership between Australia and the Philippines. Ambassador Hae Kyong Yu emphasized the importance of mutual benefit and sustainability in this venture. “What ACEN and the Yindjibarndi group are doing is fully aligned with the strategic partnership between Australia and the Philippines,” Yu said. “We are happy to collaborate and work together to ensure that the partnership is mutually beneficial and sustainable.”
ACEN, a renowned player in Australia’s renewable energy sector, has made significant contributions to the country’s clean energy transition and sustainability goals. The embassy commended ACEN’s commitment to renewable energy and its positive impact on Australia’s environmental landscape.
To facilitate this partnership, the Yindjibarndi Energy Corp. (YEC) has been established. ACEN and the Yindjibarndi people will work together to develop wind, solar, and other renewable energy projects on Yindjibarndi Ngurra, an area spanning approximately 13,000 square kilometers within Yindjibarndi’s exclusive native title land in Australia. The initial goal of YEC is to have 750 megawatts (MW) of combined wind, solar, and battery storage under construction within the next few years, representing an investment of over P36 billion. The energy produced will cater to both domestic and export markets. In subsequent stages, the aim is to target an additional two to three gigawatts (GW) of combined wind, solar, and battery storage.
ACEN International Chief Executive Officer Patrice Clausse highlighted the importance of investment advisors in both the Philippines and Australia, who are keeping the company informed about developments in Australia’s growing renewable energy sector and sharing valuable information on investment opportunities. Clausse also emphasized the foundation of this partnership, stating, “This partnership between ACEN and the Yindjibarndi people was built on shared values. ACEN were genuine in their interactions with the Yindjibarndi people — they were honest about their intentions and listened to what the traditional owners needed.”
This collaboration between the Yindjibarndi people and ACEN not only showcases the potential of renewable energy but also highlights the significance of Indigenous-led initiatives in sustainable development. By leveraging the expertise of ACEN and the rich resources of Yindjibarndi Ngurra, this partnership aims to create a positive impact on the environment while also generating economic opportunities for the Yindjibarndi people.
It is inspiring to witness such collaborations that prioritize the well-being of both the environment and the local communities involved. As the Yindjibarndi people and ACEN work hand in hand, this partnership serves as a model for future endeavors in the renewable energy sector, demonstrating the importance of genuine collaboration, shared values, and sustainable practices.
In conclusion, the partnership between the First Nations Yindjibarndi people and ACEN for renewable energy projects in Western Australia is a significant step towards sustainable development and economic opportunities. By combining their expertise and resources, ACEN and the Yindjibarndi people are set to make a substantial impact on Australia’s renewable energy landscape. This collaboration serves as an inspiration for other Indigenous-led initiatives and emphasizes the importance of mutual benefit and sustainability in such partnerships.
Source: The Manila Times