The Future Energy Exports Cooperative Research Centre (FEnEx CRC) says construction is progressing on the first stage of the Kwinana Energy Transformation Hub (KETH) after awarding a contract to Western Projects to build the facility’s research and development (R&D) building in Western Australia.
In a media release, FEnEx CRC said the Stage 1 R&D building, designed by Ferguson Architects, will form part of a multi-user, open-access testbed aimed at supporting the development and commercialisation of emerging clean energy technologies.
The hub will be located in the Kwinana Industrial Area and is intended to provide a real-world environment where companies and researchers can test technologies designed to reduce emissions and support the transition to lower-carbon energy systems.
Construction began in September 2025 and is scheduled for completion in October 2026. FEnEx CRC said the planning, design and construction of the Stage 1 R&D building are being delivered entirely by Western Australian companies.
FEnEx CRC chief executive Professor Eric May said the construction contract represented a key step in establishing the hub.
“This contract is a major milestone for KETH. The new facility will provide a safe, real-world environment to test and prove clean energy technologies, helping them reach the market faster,” May said.
“KETH will be a thriving industrial R&D hub and a catalyst for building Western Australia’s clean energy ecosystem. It will create jobs, support skills development, and strengthen WA’s role as a leader in the clean energy industries.”
He added that the hub would also support industry efforts to reduce emissions and strengthen Australia’s international reputation in emerging clean energy markets.
“It will not only help industry reduce emissions but also boost Australia’s reputation as a reliable clean energy partner worldwide,” May said, noting the project had received support from the Western Australian Government through its Investment Attraction Fund.
Western Projects director Jos Colvin said the company was pleased to be involved in the development.
“Western Projects is proud to be delivering the construction of KETH, a nationally significant initiative driving innovation in energy transition technologies,” Colvin said.
“As a WA-based company, we are committed to supporting local industry, creating job opportunities, and contributing to a more sustainable energy future. We look forward to working closely with the FEnEx CRC and project partners to bring this visionary project to life.”
FEnEx CRC said the hub forms part of its broader effort to support research and industry collaboration in emissions measurement and verification, energy decarbonisation and the development of low-carbon fuels, with the aim of contributing to national and international decarbonisation goals.
