Tender for Geraldton Airport microgrid awarded with Perth-based UON to deliver the $5m project

Geraldton’s move towards its net-zero targets has taken another step, after the tender for the $5 million airport microgrid was awarded.

Perth-based integrated energy company UON has been contracted to construct the microgrid, after a unanimous City of Greater Geraldton council vote last month.

More information on the $5m project will be released in the coming weeks.

Mayor Jerry Clune said the project was a win for the region.

“Not only does it put us further along the path towards reaching our net-zero by 2030 emissions target it will also mean that our community will be far more resilient when natural disasters occur as the airport and adjacent emergency services precinct will still be able to function in the event of a power failure,” he said.

“The city received eight tender submissions for this visionary initiative, and it is fantastic to see that it has been awarded to UON who are a Western Australian company that have long been leaders in this industry.

“I am also extremely proud of the leadership the city has shown and that our airport will be the first in the southern hemisphere to be powered by green energy.”

The Federal Government’s Disaster Relief Fund contributed $2m towards the project.

The microgrid would be designed as a power supply that would remain uninterrupted, which is important for emergency services during natural disasters.

According to the city, the project would make it the first airport to be powered in full by renewable energy in the southern hemisphere.

UON chairman Mark Keogh said the organisation was looking forward to working on a project supporting renewable energy.

“As a proud Western Australian company and locally based energy solutions manufacturer, UON is committed not only to delivering innovative and sustainable energy systems but also to providing jobs and opportunities as part of this energy transition,” he said.

“This project aligns perfectly with our mission to create energy for every future, and we look forward to working alongside the City of Greater Geraldton to make a lasting and positive impact.”