Fortescue Metals Group (ASX: FMG) has officially started building its Nullagine Wind Project in the Pilbara, Western Australia. This marks the company’s first operational wind development and a major step toward its Real Zero emissions target. The project lays the foundation for a larger renewable energy portfolio that Fortescue plans to roll out over the next decade.
The 133 MW project will install 17 wind turbines, supplied by global green technology leader Envision Energy. Fortescue recently acquired Nabrawind, allowing the use of their self-erecting tower technology, which will raise the turbines to a hub height of 188 meters. This is one of the tallest onshore installations in the world. The taller towers are expected to generate significantly more energy. A prototype of this turbine has already been tested in China and will be relocated to the Pilbara in mid-2026.
Complementing Solar and Battery Storage
Fortescue CEO Dino Otranto said the project is about more than just wind. “Wind, alongside solar and batteries, provides the reliable, low-cost power we need to electrify haul trucks, drills, processing plants, and rail across the Pilbara,” he said.
Nullagine will feed into Pilbara Energy Connect, balancing power from daytime solar at Fortescue’s Cloudbreak Solar Farm with night-time and seasonal wind generation. Large-scale batteries at North Star Junction already help stabilize the grid. Together, this creates a baseload renewable energy system that is operational under real mining conditions.
Why This Matters for Investors
- First Wind Project, Big Potential: Nullagine is just the start. Fortescue aims to deploy 2–3 GW of renewable energy and storage by 2030, including wind and solar projects.
- Industrial-Scale Electrification: Replacing diesel and gas with renewable energy can reduce costs and emissions across the Pilbara operations.
- Technology Advantage: Nabrawind’s self-erecting towers and high hub heights improve energy output per turbine, which could enhance project efficiency and returns.
- Pipeline Visibility: Future projects will be announced once they reach Final Investment Decision, giving investors a clear view of long-term growth.
Bottom Line
For FMG investors, Nullagine is more than a new wind farm. It is a tangible step toward cost-effective, industrial-scale renewable energy in one of the world’s most challenging mining regions. The combination of wind, solar, and batteries positions Fortescue as a renewable energy leader in heavy industry. It also supports its ambitious Real Zero targets. Progress on Nullagine and future renewable projects could have meaningful long-term impact on operating costs, carbon emissions, and shareholder value.
