Western Power, commonly known as WA Power, is wholly owned by the Western Australian Government. This makes it a state-owned corporation with the critical responsibility of managing and operating the primary electricity network in a significant part of Western Australia.
Understanding Western Power's Core Role
As a government-owned entity, Western Power plays an essential role in the supply and distribution of electricity across a significant portion of Western Australia. Its primary responsibilities include: * **Operating and maintaining** a vast electricity network, which encompasses thousands of kilometres of transmission lines, distribution poles, wires, and numerous substations. * **Ensuring the reliable and safe delivery** of electricity to millions of homes, businesses, and industries within its service area. * **Managing the infrastructure** that connects power generation sources to end-users, ensuring a stable and efficient power flow.Western Power and Horizon Power are both owned by the Western Australian Government. These two state-owned utilities collectively operate the three major electricity networks within the state, ensuring comprehensive power coverage from metropolitan areas to remote regions.
Government's Investment in Energy Infrastructure
The ownership of Western Power by the Western Australian Government reflects a strategic decision to maintain direct control over vital infrastructure. This model is often adopted for essential services like electricity to ensure stability, accessibility, and long-term investment. Government ownership in this sector typically allows for: * **Strategic planning** for future energy needs, including integrating new technologies and renewable energy sources. * **Prioritizing public benefit** and service reliability, often over purely commercial profit motives. * **Direct oversight and accountability** of a critical sector that underpins the state's economy and community well-being.Key Entities in WA's Electricity Sector
The following table highlights the ownership and primary functions of the key government-owned entities in Western Australia's electricity industry:| Entity | Ownership | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Western Power | Western Australian Government | Operates major electricity network (transmission & distribution) in the most populated areas. |
| Horizon Power | Western Australian Government | Operates electricity networks in regional and remote areas of WA. |
This governmental structure ensures that the state maintains direct control over its primary electricity infrastructure, aligning its development with the broader public policy objectives for Western Australia's energy future and ensuring reliable service for its residents and industries.
