First Nations initiative-led solar project to commence construction

Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC), an Indigenous-led renewable energy initiative, will begin construction of the Jinbi Solar Project in the Pilbara after reaching financial close and signing a 30-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Rio Tinto.

Early site works are already underway, and construction will now commence in accordance with the approved schedule, with full commercial operations, which will mark the start of the 30-year PPA supply period, expected in mid-2028.

The close confirms key funding, contractual arrangements, government approvals and consents required for construction have been satisfied.

Under the agreement, YEC will supply 100% of the electricity generated by Jinbi to Rio Tinto, supporting decarbonisation of Rio Tinto's Iron Ore Pilbara operations once the project is operational.

Stage 1 of the Jinbi Solar Project will comprise a 75-megawatt alternating current (MWac) solar facility, with an option to expand to 150 MWac, including the potential addition of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

The Jinbi project is YEC's first project to progress through to financial close, three years after it was established as a partnership between Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation and ACEN Corporation.

The milestone reflects the completion of a disciplined and deliberate commercial development process, and the establishment of robust governance, contractual and financing arrangements consistent with both Yindjibarndi and ACEN values and priorities, YEC said.

It demonstrates YEC's capacity to deliver complex infrastructure projects while maintaining a strong cultural foundation and clear accountability to both shareholders, it said.

YEC chief executive Craig Ricato said the close marks a major step in delivering renewable energy for the community.

"Reaching financial close on our first project in the Pilbara within three years of the partnership's operation is a significant milestone for YEC and our shareholders, the Yindjibarndi Traditional Owners and ACEN," Ricato said.

"It confirms that a Yindjibarndi-led project, grounded in Country and culture, can meet the rigorous commercial requirements of the energy market while staying true to our values and governance responsibilities.

"All subsequent stages will continue to proceed deliberately and in accordance with regulatory requirements, approvals and ongoing engagement processes, with commercial operations expected to commence in mid-2028."

Meanwhile, Yindjibarndi Nation chief executive Michael Woodley said the close represented a pivotal step in translating long-held aspirations into enduring outcomes for Yindjibarndi people.

"Jinbi is about more than a renewable energy project - it is about Yindjibarndi people exercising authority on Country and building an economic future that reflects our law, culture and responsibilities," Woodley said.

"Reaching financial close demonstrates that when development is Yindjibarndi-led, underpinned by strong governance and the right partnerships, it can deliver outcomes that are both commercially sound and culturally grounded."

Rio Tinto Iron Ore chief executive Matthew Holcz added: "We're 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."

Meantime, ACEN group chief investment officer Patrice Clausse said the Jinbi Solar Project reflects the strength of the partnership between ACEN and Yindjibarndi.

"Jinbi demonstrates what is possible when traditional owner leadership, long-term vision and disciplined project development come together," Clausse said.

"ACEN is proud to partner with Yindjibarndi on a project that meets rigorous commercial standards while setting a strong benchmark for responsible and respectful renewable energy development in Australia."