Frontier Energy Ltd (ASX:FHE)’s Bristol Springs Renewable Energy Project (BSSP) has been awarded lead agency status by the Western Australian Government, under a program administered by the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation (JTSI).
Lead agency case management support is only awarded to projects, such as BSSP, that are of significance to the state.
The status recognises the importance of BSSP for the development of the renewable energy industry in WA, including the development of a green hydrogen industry.
Strong endorsement
“Being awarded lead agency status is a strong endorsement from the WA Government, as this highlights the importance the project plays not only for the state’s renewable energy strategy but also the domestic hydrogen industry,” managing director Sam Lee Mohan said.
“This status ensures if there is any ‘red tape’ adversely impacting the development of the project, JTSI will help Frontier to navigate and find successful outcomes.
“It also ensures that when the state is promoting Western Australia’s renewable energy and hydrogen strategy to a global audience, the Bristol Springs project will now be front and centre.”
Effective guidance
The Lead Agency Framework is designed to ensure proponents can be guided effectively through approvals processes, know what is expected of them and don’t fall through the cracks.
JTSI is the lead agency for BSSP and direct facilitator between the government and the company, and its involvement includes the following responsibilities:
- negotiating and managing agreements between major development proponents and the Western Australian Government;
- promoting Western Australian exports and attracting foreign direct investment into Western Australia’s economy; and
- developing and coordinating state-significant projects and infrastructure.
Ongoing commitment
Lead agency case management status has been granted to the company for at least the next three years.
“We look forward to working closely with JTSI through Stage One’s development, but also in the long term, as we target total renewable energy production of up to 1GW of energy in the region,” Mohan said.
“We would also like to thank the WA Government for its ongoing commitment to this project and the development of this critical industry overall.”