Former WA Premier Mark McGowan has been appointed non-executive chairman of renewable energy developer Frontier Energy.

The appointment, which begins on September 2, comes as the company seeks to establish itself as a major player in renewable energy production.

Mr McGowan brings with him a deep understanding of the  electricity landscape and key stakeholders, Frontier says.

As Western Australia’s Premier from 2017 to 2023, he played a leading role in kick-starting WA’s transition from fossil fuels to renewables and drove the decision for state-owned electricity generator Synergy to transition out of coal-fired power generation by 2030.

“At the same time, Mr McGowan’s government oversaw $3.8 billion investment in new green power infrastructure, including large-scale battery storage and renewable energy generation projects,” Frontier said in a statement to the ASX.

Renewable energy projects

Frontier is currently developing the Waroona Renewable Energy project and the Bristol Springs Green Hydrogen Project in the state’s south west.

The Waroona Renewable Energy Project, located 120km from Perth, is on track to become one of the largest renewable energy projects in Australia, with 868ha of freehold land under Frontier’s control.

Mr McGowen said during his time as WA Premier he worked towards a clean energy transition for the state while ensuring energy security remained a priority.

“Frontier’s Waroona Project stands out as a significant asset in Western Australia’s transition, at a time when energy security is paramount, and the state continues to experience new demand records,” he said.

“I look forward to working closely with the company to ensure this strategy is realised for the benefit of shareholders, key stakeholders and all West Australians.”

Executive director Grant Davey said Frontier was delighted to have Mr McGowan on board, given his strong and strategic focus on sustainable green energy in WA while in office.

Mr Davey said Frontier has recently received certified reserve capacity, which allows Stage One of the Waroona Project to go ahead.

“This is the first step in our strategy to become a large-scale producer of renewable energy,” Mr Davey said.

“We look forward to working closely with Mark as the company remains focused on delivering significant shareholder value in this era of energy transition.”

The appointment also comes as the Federal Government rolls out the first WA tender for its Capacity Investment Scheme to incentivise renewable energy investment.

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