Full Breakdown
Jinbi Solar Project Secures Financial Close and 30-Year PPA
5/13/2026, 9:20:49 AM
Context and Stakeholders
Australia’s renewable push is accelerating, and Rio Tinto aims for 90 % renewable electricity by 2030. The Jinbi Solar Project in the Pilbara will supply clean power to Rio Tinto’s iron-ore operations. The project is developed by Yindjibarndi Energy Corp (YEC), a joint venture of Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) and ACEN Corp. Construction partners are DT Infrastructure (EPC) and Rapid Camps; civil works are led by Yurra, a Yindjibarndi-owned firm. Rio Tinto’s Iron Ore chief executive Matthew Holcz is the sole off-taker under a 30-year power purchase agreement (PPA). ACEN’s chief investment officer Patrice Clausse also participates.
Timeline and Scale
- 2023: YEC formed to develop up to 3 GW of renewables across ~13 000 km² of Yindjibarndi land.
- 2024-2025: Financial close announced; PPA signed.
- Immediate: Notices to proceed issued; site preparation begun.
- Mid-2028 (target): Stage 1 (75 MW ac) begins commercial operation, with an option to expand to 150 MW ac and add battery storage pending approvals.
Official Statements
YEC describes the project as a benchmark for Indigenous participation in the energy transition. Rio Tinto stresses that the partnership delivers lasting value for its operations and the Yindjibarndi community. ACEN frames the collaboration as a model of traditional-owner leadership combined with disciplined development.
Criticism and Legal Dispute
Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation is simultaneously pursuing a $1 billion cultural-loss claim and an $825 million financial-loss claim against Fortescue Metals, highlighting ongoing tensions between mining activities and Indigenous rights even as renewable projects proceed.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
All sources agree on the 75 MW ac capacity of Stage 1, but the schedule for expanding to 150 MW ac and adding battery storage varies, with some citing “subject to regulatory approvals” and others noting “potential” expansion. Exact dates for construction beyond “immediate” are not disclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It confirms that a Yindjibarndi-led project, grounded in Country and culture, can meet the rigorous commercial requirements of the energy market while staying true to our values and governance responsibilities,” — Craig Ricato, CEO, Yindjibarndi Energy Corp.
- “Developing renewable energy on Yindjibarndi Country, in partnership with its Traditional Custodians, creates enduring value – supporting our operations while contributing to long-term economic opportunities on Country,” — Matthew Holcz, Iron Ore Chief Executive, Rio Tinto.
- “Reaching Financial Close on our first project in the Pilbara within three years of the partnership’s operation is a significant milestone for YEC and our shareholders, the Yindjibarndi Traditional Owners and ACEN,” — Craig Ricato, YEC CEO.
- “Jinbi demonstrates what is possible when Traditional Owner leadership, long term vision and disciplined project development come together,” — Patrice Clausse, ACEN Group Chief Investment Officer.
What's Next
Construction will progress through civil works and module installation, with the 75 MW stage slated for mid-2028 commissioning. Successful operation is expected to unlock further renewable projects across Yindjibarndi land, reinforcing Australia’s shift toward low-carbon energy.
