The Government of Western Australia has announced that it has launched a special green steel procurement initiative designed to strengthen domestic production, accelerate the achievement of the state's decarbonization goals and make Western Australia a leader in low-carbon industrial production.
The Government has identified green iron precursors and environmentally friendly steel production as high-value industrial opportunities, with projects being developed in Kwinana, the Midwest and the Pilbara.
WA positions green steel as a strategic industrial opportunity
By using government procurement to create early demand, the state aims to boost local steel production capacity, support the recycling of decommissioned mining and offshore oil and gas assets, reduce carbon dioxide emissions in key infrastructure programs, and create a sustainable supply chain for the energy transition.
Green steel will be considered for large-scale use on roads, railways, power lines, public buildings and new hospital projects.
In the new procurement rules, priority is given to low-carbon steel from Western Australia
Under the updated approach to on-site procurement, the government will enforce measures that give preference to environmentally friendly steel produced in Western Australia.
Key policy measures include:
- The publication of an addendum to the Western Australia State Industry Participation Strategy (WAIPS) specifically for steel products, which will entail higher expectations for local sources, recognize the importance of low-emission recycled steel and require a value for money assessment,
- increase the supply of local steel for public sector projects, including the health, transportation and clean energy sectors,
- launch an open expression of interest in suppliers of environmentally friendly steel.
Green steel is the key to energy transition
Prime Minister Roger Cook said locally produced environmentally friendly steel is central to Washington State's quest to become a leader in the field.
