Roger Cook’s ‘sustainable tourism’ vow delayed as Rottnest energy overhaul blows out

The Cook Government has been accused of stalling on a commitment for Rottnest Island “to go green” after confirmation that a four-year time frame for energy and water upgrades has blown out. A $62 million upgrade to ensure 75 per cent of Rottnest’s power is supplied through renewables was announced in April 2022, but in October the Government conceded its commitments to double solar generation capacity and replace an ageing wind turbine were incomplete. The West Australian can now reveal the project is up to three years behind schedule. “This upgrade will be delivered in carefully planned phases to ensure the integrated energy network is reliable and efficient to support future energy demands,” a Rottnest Island Authority spokesperson said. “Subject to all required approvals, it is projected to be completed in 2028-29. “ Greens MP Brad Pettit accused the Government of dropping the ball, after a proposal to upgrade the existing hybrid electrical generation found “no suitable vendor” and was called off. “My fear is that they’re actually giving up on that,” he said. “None of these projects are particularly complicated or radical, so why haven’t they pushed this? “Are they walking away from this promise and the (announcement) they made in 2022? This is about political will, about the Government actually delivering on their renewable energy rhetoric.” Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourne told Parliament that “an alternative procurement strategy” is being considered. Premier Roger Cook was Tourism Minister in April 2022, when the plan was announced to use renewables to power three-quarters of the island’s energy needs. “We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to replace the island’s ageing critical infrastructure, some of which dates back over 40 years,” Mr Cook said. “This investment by the McGowan government showcases how sustainable tourism can be delivered at scale in WA.” The Rottnest Island Authority said it remains committed to the 75 per cent renewable target. “Rottnest Island Authority is investigating a range of solutions, with the future network expected to include a mix of solar, wind, battery storage and diesel generation,” the spokesperson said. “Wind technologies remain under consideration for future expansion and integration. “ Mr Swinbourne said network upgrades have already enabled the removal of gas appliances from Rottnest Island Authority’s visitor accommodation. Priority network upgrades have been completed within Geordie Bay, the Longreach Bay low-voltage network, Fays Bay, Digby Drive and The Lodge Wadjemup.