Water West wins utility licence

Perth-based private utility Water West has received Economic Regulation Authority approval to roll out water recycling at a new land development near Pinjarra.

The company, which is backed by Brookfield Infrastructure and Azure Capital, will now be licensed to build and operate a sewerage scheme for around 2,250 homes, primary schools and a shopping centre at North Dandalup.

That wastewater will be recycled and put towards non-potable uses, such as irrigation of parks.

More than 30 organisations already hold water licences in the state, although most of those are state government entities and local shires.

Private holders include Hamersley Iron and Robe River mining, both of which are approved for potable water supply.

Water West managing director Jeff Strahan said the move to have local reticulated sewerage and recycling services would significantly cut the state government’s water infrastructure costs.

Business News reported in December that a research report prepared for Water West by ACIL Allen Consulting had predicted a saving of around $1.5 billion over the next 35 years.

“Water West now has the go ahead to deliver locally based reticulated sewerage and recycling services, alleviating pressure on government to build expensive water infrastructure, and potentially opening up new residential communities across Western Australia,” Mr Strahan said.

“By recycling local wastewater, Water West will not only deliver a reticulated sewerage scheme that was not otherwise available to the new town site, but will also facilitate larger and greener open spaces.

“With approval granted by the ERA, we’re now working with a number of developers to design, build and operate local water schemes that best meets the needs of new greenfield and infill developments in several parts of Perth.’’