RCR Advanced Technologies will embark on a $5.31 million project to establish itself as a manufacturer of key wind turbine components, backed by the Western Australian Government and the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC).
The Bunbury-based company, part of the half-century-old RCR Mining Technologies, has received $2.05 million in co-funding through the Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program. It is the largest co-investment to date under the initiative.
The 18-month project will focus on producing transition flanges – critical components at the base of wind towers that connect the tower to its foundation. These parts, which can reach diameters of 5.5 metres, are currently imported, presenting logistical challenges for onshore wind farm projects.
In addition to manufacturing flanges, RCR will create a refurbishment centre for wind turbine components such as gearboxes and drive shafts. The project is expected to generate 48 jobs and $36 million in revenue over the next five years.
“This project will have a significant positive impact in the area we operate in and offers opportunities for us, our workforce, and the region to adapt,” said RCR Advanced Technologies Manager, Neville Kelly. “RCR is in a prime position to upskill local workers and provide employment related to modern energy sources, while leveraging our mining sector heritage.”
The company has also secured links with global wind energy manufacturer Vestas and is in early discussions with developer Green Wind Renewables, which is advancing large-scale wind farms in the South West Interconnected System.
Western Australia’s industry minister, Amber-Jade Sanderson, said the project demonstrated the government’s commitment to building a competitive, future-focused manufacturing base.
“Through the Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program, we’re enabling local companies to scale up, invest in advanced equipment, and secure their place in global clean energy supply chains,” Sanderson said.
The program, administered by AMGC, has already supported two businesses, with combined projects forecast to generate over 70 jobs and almost $54 million in new revenues in their first five years.
Ellen McGarrity, AMGC’s state director, said RCR’s move into wind energy was an example of Australian industry adapting its expertise.
“RCR is extending its heritage, reducing supply-chain complexity and delivery times, and helping address demands from industry and the state for the clean energy this era will be powered by,” McGarrity said.
Applications to the program remain open until funding is exhausted, with two streams available for manufacturers: a market entry stream for smaller capability projects, and a market growth stream supporting larger capital and R&D investments.
Since its creation eight years ago, AMGC has facilitated more than 500 collaborations and co-funded over 161 industry projects nationally, helping create more than 4,300 jobs and $1.62 billion in additional revenue.
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