Perth-based company Hyperion Energy is proposing to build the world’s tallest structure on a cattle station in the Mid West.

The company said it plans to construct a 2000MW renewable energy power plant at Karbar station near Cue, at an estimated cost of $1.6 billion.

Central to the project is a 1kmtall solar updraft tower that works under the premise that hot air rises, powering turbines that produce electricity.

The futuristic project is the brainchild of formerly-bankrupt Burswood Casino developer Dallas Dempster.

Mr Dempster, together with his son and Perth business identity Tony Sage, have sought project approval and have purchased a cattle station at Tuckanarra.

Hyperion said it was working through the process of gaining the necessary regulatory approvals for the project, which he hoped would come this year.

“Hyperion has the necessary funding already committed to enable our feasibility studies to be completed,” Mr Dempster said.

“We have a commitment from a major overseas contractor with proven capability to build the tower (and) we also have manufacturing companies available to provide the specifi c collector material.

“This area has the highest solar radiation levels in Australia (and) it’s close to transport links and a number of major iron ore projects that are currently under development.

“This plant will provide a sustainable, environmentally friendly way to generate base-load power for WA.”

The technology for the solar updraft tower is engineered in Germany and a number of countries including Spain, the US and China have tested the technology with mixed results.

A 195 metre prototype fell over in Spain after corroded guide-wires snapped in a heavy storm.

There also plans to build a similar tower in New South Wales.

Shire of Cue commissioner Paul Omodei said the council received a letter in October from the Department of Regional Development and Lands outlining Hyperion’s intentions to lease the land at 9000 hectare site.

“The Shire of Cue advised the Department of Regional and Lands that there was no objection to the proposed decision,” he said.

“We welcome the announcement that they (Hyperion) want to build this thing, we wait with bated breath to see if comes to fruition.

“If it comes to fruition we’d certainly not stand in its way.”

Mr Omodei said he would contact local mining operations to investigate whether Hyperion had approached the companies for purchase the power generated by the solar updraft plant.

Hyperion’s plans show a highspeed lift capable of taking people to a viewing platform at the top of the tower.

The company said it expects tourists to visit the tower, however, the lift and viewing platform have made the project look more likea futuristic, science-fiction piece rather than a power generator.

City of Greater Geraldton chief executive Tony Brun said the City had not been consulted on the proposed $1.6 billion project but “strongly supports” the need for renewable energy developments.

“The City has received no information on this proposal nor has any knowledge of the background of the proponent,” he said.

“Geraldton and the Mid West is well positioned to capitalise on its strengths with wind, solar, wave, geothermal and biomass energy as supplements to traditional fuel sources such as coal and gas.

“The City is aware demand for energy in the region could be as high as 16,000mw.

This is a significant level of demand and it is critical that the State Government plan, fund and deliver the appropriate transmission infrastructure.”

Shire of Meekatharra president Tom Hutchison said he hadn’t heard from the company but was aware of the plans to build the structure.

Hyperion said construction would take 30 months, and create 2000 jobs.