McGowan Government rolling out solar panels on train and bus stations

The McGowan Government is rolling out solar panels across more than 50 train and bus stations across Perth.

Over 1,000kW of solar panels are being installed on train and bus stations - once installed these are expected to produce enough energy to power 360 homes.

Solar panels have now been installed at East Perth (80x 450W panels), Rockingham (74x 450W panels) and Currambine (88x 450W panels) stations, with work soon to get underway at Murdoch and Bull Creek stations.

A feasibility study to confirm the full list of 50 train stations is currently underway, with the full rollout anticipated to be completed by mid-2022.

So far eight bus stations have had solar panels installed - Booragoon, Kwinana, Morley, Victoria Park, James Street, Mirrabooka, Henley Brook and Optus Stadium.

Work is underway installing the panels at Leederville bus station, while solar panels were also installed on High Wycombe Station last year as part of METRONET's Forrestfield Airport Link.

The power generated by the bus station solar panels will power lighting at the stations, ticket machines, signage and driver facilities.

The power generated by the train stations will be similar but will also be used to power lifts and escalators.

More than $1.8 million has been allocated to the program through the WA Recovery Plan, which aims to support the economy and local jobs through COVID-19.

Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"We've allocated more than $1.8 million to rolling out solar panels across more than 50 train stations across Perth.

"From East Perth to Rockingham, Bull Creek to Edgewater, we plan to install solar panels to improve energy efficiency, while also supporting local jobs and the local economy.

"Over 1,000kW of solar panels are being installed on train and bus stations - once completed these are expected to produce enough energy to power the equivalent of 360 households per year.

"Combined with our electric bus trial in Joondalup which is due to start next year, we're trialling new technologies that will support local jobs and help make our public transport system more sustainable."

Comments attributed to Rockingham MLA Mark McGowan:

"I'm pleased Rockingham Train Station is benefiting from the installation of solar panels.

"The energy generated will also be used to power public infrastructure at the station such as ticket machines, signage, driver facilities, the lifts and escalators and will help reduce the electricity consumption. 

"This project is part of our plan to support local jobs and boost the economy through the COVID-19 pandemic."

Minister's office - 6552 5500

First tranche of train stations to receive solar panels through the WA Recovery Plan:

• Rockingham
• Currambine
• Bull Creek
• Murdoch
• Edgewater
• East Perth
• Butler
• Thornlie
• Clarkson
• Leederville