Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC) has closed a deal with Rio Tinto on a power purchase agreement for its Jinbi Solar Project in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.
The 30-year deal marks the first project by YEC to reach this stage, three years after its formation in partnership with the Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation and ACEN Corporation.
Under the terms, YEC will provide 100% of the electricity produced from stage one to Rio Tinto for decarbonisation of the miner’s Pilbara Iron Ore operations.
Stage one of Jinbi includes a 75MW-alternating current solar facility, which may expand to 150MWac. It could also later include battery energy storage systems.
Rio Tinto iron ore CEO Matthew Holcz said: “We are proud to be part of the Jinbi project, which reflects years of work by many and led by the Yindjibarndi people.
“Developing renewable energy on Yindjibarndi Country, in partnership with its traditional custodians, creates enduring value – supporting our operations while contributing to long-term economic opportunities on country.”
YEC retained contractors DT Infrastructure and Rapid Camps to begin work.
Full operations are are projected in mid-2028. The PPA will begin at that point.