Overview
Cloudbreak is a 44 MW diesel power plant in Western Australia, operated by Contract Power. It provides electricity to the Cloudbreak mine site.
Cloudbreak is a diesel power plant located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, near the Cloudbreak iron ore mine. With a capacity of 44 megawatts, it is a medium-scale facility designed to support mining operations in a remote area. The plant is owned and operated by Contract Power, a company specializing in off-grid power solutions for the resources sector. Diesel power plants are known for their reliability and quick startup, but they have higher carbon emissions compared to natural gas or renewable sources. The facility operates under Australian environmental regulations, including the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) scheme, which requires monitoring and reporting of emissions. Cloudbreak plays a critical role in powering the Cloudbreak mine, one of the largest iron ore operations in the region. Its operation is essential for the local economy and the global iron ore supply chain. The plant's location in a sparsely populated area reduces direct exposure to population centers, but its diesel fuel source contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Environmental context
The plant's diesel fuel source results in higher CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per MWh compared to natural gas or renewables. Located in a remote arid region, the local environment is sensitive to air quality changes. The facility's proximity to the Cloudbreak mine means it supports resource extraction, which has broader environmental impacts including land disturbance and water use. Regulatory oversight under Australian emissions reporting frameworks helps manage its environmental footprint.
Frequently asked questions
The Cloudbreak power plant is located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, near the Cloudbreak iron ore mine.
Cloudbreak is a diesel power plant, which uses diesel fuel to generate electricity.
The Cloudbreak power plant has a capacity of 44 megawatts (MW).
The Cloudbreak power plant is owned and operated by Contract Power.
Diesel power plants in Australia must comply with the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) scheme, which requires monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. State-based environmental protection agencies also regulate air quality and emissions.