East Perth Power Station

For a webpage with a documented history of the East Perth Power Station, go to Place:East_Perth_Power_Station_History

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The East Perth coal fired power station (EPPS) was Australia’s first power station built on the 'Independent Unit Principle'. This principle was developed by Mr Charles Merz, a world-renowned electrical engineering expert of the early 20th century. It greatly improved the reliability and efficiency of electric power generation. It was to become the pattern of power station design and layout applied throughout Australia.

EPPS was also the nation’s first power station exclusively employing turbo-alternators for production of electric power. Most of these machines remain in their original locations.

The first two phases of the power station consisted of 40 Hz machinery. By 1943 this frequency was out of step with the rest of Australia so the WA Government decided to convert from to 40 Hz to 50 Hz. To facilitate the conversion, a 40/50 Hz frequency changer was installed at EPPS. When it entered service its 25 MW electric motors were reputed to be the largest in the southern hemisphere. The frequency conversion required widespread modifications to consumers’ electrical equipment. The State Electricity Commission carried out this work between 1951 and 1958.

Construction of EPPS commenced in 1913 with more than 1,300 hardwood piles cut from the Jarrah forests of south western Australia being driven on the site. On top of them was poured a concrete raft to support the power station buildings. The first recorded power export was on 3rd December 1916. From then, until South Fremantle Power Station began operation in 1951, it was the largest power station in the State. In 1981, after 65 years of operation it permanently ceased generating power but remained on power factor correction duty until December 1982.

Initial East Perth ‘A’ Station development 1919
Source: Western Power Photos

Turbo-alternators A & B Stations
Source: Peter Lowe EPPS work photos

Source: B Station Opening Official Souvenir Book

Control Room 1927
Source: Western Power Photos

East Perth Power Station 1950s
Source: Western Power Photos

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Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	Engineering Heritage National Marker (EHNM)
Award Date	19 September 2025
Heritage Significance	Because there are many engineering features still in their original locations, the East Perth Power Station is unique within Australia and a rarity around the globe. Some of the key features are: first example of a State Government taking responsibility for electricity supply to the public as well as state government departments; first coal fired power station in Australia based on turboalternators arranged in the independent unit principle, developed by the world renowned expert Charles Merz; site still houses the largest 40/50 Hz frequency changer in Australia as well as turbo-alternators dating back to the 1930s.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report	To be advised.
Plaque/Interpretation Panel	Available here.