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How energy works
From that slice of toast in the morning to switching off the lights at bedtime, our lives run on electricity. It’s easy to not give much thought to how energy works when it’s such a normal part of your life – but imagine getting through the day without it!
A lot needs to happen to make sure electricity gets delivered safely to you. And Western Australia's electricity system is changing fast.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how energy works.
![](/globalassets/media/images/photography/always-on/energy-101/1920x1080_howenergyworks.png?v=49c382&format=webp)
It starts with electricity generation
Which comes from many sources in WA, including natural gas-fired generators, wind farms, solar farms and rooftop solar.
Learn where your energy comes fromHow powerlines work
Once electricity is generated, it is then transmitted to our distribution network (powerlines) to power your home or business.
Substation transformers raise the voltage of the electricity
So it can be transported safely over long distances through the transmission network.
The transmission network then moves the electricity
From the generators to the distribution network.
At the other end, substation transformers lower the voltage
Of the electricity. It's now ready for distribution through the powerlines.
And finally...the distribution network
This is the overhead powerlines and underground cables. They carry the electricity to your home or business.
Decentralised electricity generation in WA
A 'traditional' source like a gas power station, provides a central point for electricity generation. But there are new types of “decentralised” systems changing WA's energy future.
We’re working with our communities to shift our 'traditional' system, towards a renewable energy future. We've joined Synergy and Western Power to support the State Government’s commitment to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
That's why we’re exploring a range of decentralised generation such as virtual power plants, microgrids and stand-alone power systems.
Virtual power plants
A VPP is a network of smaller-scale electricity generation and storage sources such as rooftop solar PV systems, batteries and electric vehicles which have been combined.
These smaller electricity sources can be combined and coordinated as a VPP. This way, they can provide the same services to the electricity system as traditional centralised generation.
A VPP can help to balance supply and demand for electricity across the system.
![](/globalassets/media/images/photography/always-on/energy-101/vpps.png?v=49c376¢er=0.6,0.51&width=674&mode=crop&heightratio=0.76&format=webp)
![](/globalassets/media/images/photography/always-on/energy-101/powerlines.png?v=49c29f&width=674&mode=crop&heightratio=0.76&format=webp)
Microgrids
Our service area is about one-quarter of the size of Australia’s land mass. Microgrids are a solution we can use to power remote communities which are not connected to our main grid.
Its technology can include a mix of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind power and battery storage.
Our customers in Onslow have been part of a world-first energy trial that proved that it's possible to run an energy network on 100% hydrocarbon-free energy without any traditional backup generation.
Moving into the future
As more and more households, businesses and organisations take up solar power, we need to make sure our systems can manage higher levels of renewable energy.
Our electricity systems were originally built for a one-way flow of power when electricity was only generated from a central source. Renewable energy involves a two-way flow of power and can send excess energy back into the network.
We’re working with the State Government and local communities to transition our 'traditional' electricity systems to the future
This includes increasing the amount of solar farms, rooftop solar and battery storage.
Renewable energy is a cleaner way of generating electricity from solar, wind and other renewable sources. But we need to manage the way these sources work to maintain safe and reliable power supply across our networks.
The State Government has a plan for this
It’s known as the Distributed Energy Resources (DER) roadmap and outlines some exciting possibilities for the future, along with some big challenges. It’s all part of our mission to deliver more affordable, sustainable and reliable electricity across regional WA.
Learn about the DER roadmap![](/globalassets/media/images/photography/always-on/energy-101/western-australia.png?v=49c495&width=674&mode=crop&heightratio=0.76&format=webp)
Our unique position in WA
Being separate from the rest of the country, our energy systems have the chance to set an example of how to transition to a cleaner energy future.
We can explore the best ways to move away from relying on fossil fuels to invest in renewable energy and storage, while keeping electricity reliable and affordable.
You might have seen the WA Government has committed to closing the state’s two remaining coal-fired power stations located near Perth by 2030 and ruled out any new gas-fired power stations in the Southwest Interconnected System (SWIS) after 2030.
We’re reducing our reliance on diesel generators
By tapping into more sustainable energy sources like solar, wind, batteries and hydrogen.
We’re also working with local, regional suppliers to further invest in our communities, create local jobs and help build local economies.
By doing this, we can move into a new energy future and create a more sustainable energy supply for our customers.
![](/globalassets/media/images/photography/always-on/energy-101/reduction-on-diesel.png?v=49c5d0&width=674&mode=crop&heightratio=0.76&format=webp)
Learn more about WA's energy supply, explore these articles
Exploring Western Australia's EV Network
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Read more![Pop on down to the Kununurra Ag Show to meet Gilbert, take a shot on our basketball challenge to win the basketball, and enter our competition to win signed Josh Kennedy Merch.
We’ll be here all day and ready to answer any questions about your power supply.](https://curatorio.s3.amazonaws.com/03301a57-5bc5-499a-91b7-6b389cadfd43/353255412.jpg)
Pop on down to the Kununurra Ag Show to meet Gilbert, take a shot on our basketball challenge to win the basketball, and enter our competition to win signed Josh Kennedy Merch. We’ll be here all day and ready to answer any questions about your power supply.
As we celebrate National NAIDOC Week, Horizon Power is proud...
Read more![As we celebrate National NAIDOC Week, Horizon Power is proud to share our vision for a reconciled Australia. We envision a nation that acknowledges the injustices of its past, embraces cultural diversity, advocates for self-determination, and stands united against all forms of racism.
Our commitment to this vision is reflected in our actions, informed by the voices of our Aboriginal employees and the broader community. We're dedicated to leading our industry with meaningful reconciliation actions on the lands we operate in.
This week, we yarned with our Indigenous employees, who bring unique perspectives and experiences to our Horizon Power family. Their stories are a testament to the strength and resilience of Aboriginal culture and heritage.
Nadine's Celebration:
Nadine's NAIDOC Week in Carnarvon is a vibrant celebration of culture and community. As a Yamaji from the Mid West and Gascoyne region, Nadine has a profound connection to the river and the land. Her childhood memories are filled with camping, fishing, and the unique beauty of the upside-down river that flows through her hometown. This week, she's actively participating in events, from a ceremonial march to a family fun day, sharing the joy of Aboriginal culture with savoury damper and activities for all ages. Nadine's family history is proudly displayed at the Kalbarri Skywalk, a testament to their deep roots in the region. Her story is a reflection of the living cultures and history that NAIDOC Week honors.
Aaron's Commitment:
Aaron's journey across Australia's diverse landscapes, from the central desert to the tropics, has shaped his passion for community and positive change. As a child of the bush, raised on Doon Doon Station near his grandmother's country, Aaron's roots run deep in the land and its traditions. His role at Horizon Power allows him to collaborate with a dedicated team, striving to deliver impactful outcomes for Aboriginal communities. Outside of work, Aaron cherishes time with family, traveling across the country to connect with loved ones. During NAIDOC Week, he celebrates the resilience and achievements of First Nation peoples, their fight for justice, and the hope for a better tomorrow. Aaron's story is a testament to the enduring spirit and determination of Australia's First People.
Regina's Pride:
Regina's story is a celebration of her Yinhawangka heritage and the inclusive community of her childhood in Cadoux. Despite being the only Aboriginal family in town, she felt a strong sense of belonging and never faced racism. Now, as part of the Horizon Power team, Regina relishes the chance to connect with Traditional Owners across WA. Her love for family, beach walks with her dog, and social gatherings reflect her deep-rooted values. NAIDOC Week holds a special place in her heart, as it honors Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and resonates with current events. Regina takes pride in her Aboriginal lineage and the strength it represents, a sentiment echoed in this year's NAIDOC theme.
Tracey's Advocacy:
Tracey a proud Yamatji woman, whose roots lie deep in the Mid-West/Murchison region. Though raised on Noongar boodja country, she carries the spirit of Yamatji within her. As the eldest of three and a matriarch to her own, she upholds the strong female lineage that defines her family.
Her life is a dance between cultural duties and the Western world she inhabits, a balance that's both challenging and rewarding. She finds solace in her role at Horizon Power, a place that not only acknowledges but actively engages with Aboriginal culture, paving the way for true reconciliation.
Her wish? That we walk in both worlds together, understanding and learning from one another. Let's honour her story and the many others like hers, as we strive for a future of unity and mutual respect.
At Horizon Power we're committed to challenging the status quo and leading our industry with reconciliation actions that are informed by our Aboriginal employees and the broader Aboriginal community on the lands we operate in.
Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud
#NAIDOC #naidocweek](https://curatorio.s3.amazonaws.com/03301a57-5bc5-499a-91b7-6b389cadfd43/353212388.jpg)
As we celebrate National NAIDOC Week, Horizon Power is proud to share our vision for a reconciled Australia. We envision a nation that acknowledges the injustices of its past, embraces cultural diversity, advocates for self-determination, and stands united against all forms of racism. Our commitment to this vision is reflected in our actions, informed by the voices of our Aboriginal employees and the broader community. We're dedicated to leading our industry with meaningful reconciliation actions on the lands we operate in. This week, we yarned with our Indigenous employees, who bring unique perspectives and experiences to our Horizon Power family. Their stories are a testament to the strength and resilience of Aboriginal culture and heritage. Nadine's Celebration: Nadine's NAIDOC Week in Carnarvon is a vibrant celebration of culture and community. As a Yamaji from the Mid West and Gascoyne region, Nadine has a profound connection to the river and the land. Her childhood memories are filled with camping, fishing, and the unique beauty of the upside-down river that flows through her hometown. This week, she's actively participating in events, from a ceremonial march to a family fun day, sharing the joy of Aboriginal culture with savoury damper and activities for all ages. Nadine's family history is proudly displayed at the Kalbarri Skywalk, a testament to their deep roots in the region. Her story is a reflection of the living cultures and history that NAIDOC Week honors. Aaron's Commitment: Aaron's journey across Australia's diverse landscapes, from the central desert to the tropics, has shaped his passion for community and positive change. As a child of the bush, raised on Doon Doon Station near his grandmother's country, Aaron's roots run deep in the land and its traditions. His role at Horizon Power allows him to collaborate with a dedicated team, striving to deliver impactful outcomes for Aboriginal communities. Outside of work, Aaron cherishes time with family, traveling across the country to connect with loved ones. During NAIDOC Week, he celebrates the resilience and achievements of First Nation peoples, their fight for justice, and the hope for a better tomorrow. Aaron's story is a testament to the enduring spirit and determination of Australia's First People. Regina's Pride: Regina's story is a celebration of her Yinhawangka heritage and the inclusive community of her childhood in Cadoux. Despite being the only Aboriginal family in town, she felt a strong sense of belonging and never faced racism. Now, as part of the Horizon Power team, Regina relishes the chance to connect with Traditional Owners across WA. Her love for family, beach walks with her dog, and social gatherings reflect her deep-rooted values. NAIDOC Week holds a special place in her heart, as it honors Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and resonates with current events. Regina takes pride in her Aboriginal lineage and the strength it represents, a sentiment echoed in this year's NAIDOC theme. Tracey's Advocacy: Tracey a proud Yamatji woman, whose roots lie deep in the Mid-West/Murchison region. Though raised on Noongar boodja country, she carries the spirit of Yamatji within her. As the eldest of three and a matriarch to her own, she upholds the strong female lineage that defines her family. Her life is a dance between cultural duties and the Western world she inhabits, a balance that's both challenging and rewarding. She finds solace in her role at Horizon Power, a place that not only acknowledges but actively engages with Aboriginal culture, paving the way for true reconciliation. Her wish? That we walk in both worlds together, understanding and learning from one another. Let's honour her story and the many others like hers, as we strive for a future of unity and mutual respect. At Horizon Power we're committed to challenging the status quo and leading our industry with reconciliation actions that are informed by our Aboriginal employees and the broader Aboriginal community on the lands we operate in. Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud #NAIDOC #naidocweek
Understanding your energy bill
Read moreHorizon Power acknowledges the Traditional Custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this website may contain images, names or voices of deceased people.