State offers help for $1.5bn solar plant

The state government says it is happy to facilitate discussions to help find an alternative site for Pankaj Oswal's $1.5 billion solar energy plant after it was reported the Indian billionaire has approached a South Australian council.

"I am happy to facilitate discussion with the proponent to help it find an alternative site that is suitable for its project," Energy Minister Peter Collier said in an emailed statement to WA Business News.

"This government encourages the development of renewable energy projects and welcomes the opportunity to examine the merits of any plan presented to us."

The West Australian newspaper reported today that Mr Oswal approached the Coorang District Council after difficulties in securing 1300 hectares of land in the Pilbara.

Mr Oswal is reportedly in talks with South Australian electricity buyers to establish a price to sell the solar-generated electricity.

The plant that was proposed for the Pilbara was capable of producing 100 megawatts of electricity.