A new power station for WA has been commissioned.

The South Hedland power station will provide energy to Horizon Power and Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) from natural gas and steam turbines, via a new transmission line to FMG’s port operations.

TransAlta Energy has secured the contract to build, maintain and operate the 150 megawatt Pilbara power station, which can be expanded to supply power to other commercial users.

The project is expected to provide around 214 jobs during construction, before dropping down to just have 24 staff for its 24/7 operations in South Hedland.

WA energy minister Ben Wyatt welcomed the progress.

“This combined-cycle gas power station will provide essential energy supply for the rapidly growing Pilbara region under an innovative privately funded delivery model constructed under an agreement between the State Government, Horizon Power and Fortescue Metals Group,” he said.