Victoria’s second offshore renewable wind area to be declared has been named as the Southern Ocean off Portland.
The next big step in the State’s natural energy transition, the area was announced by the Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, commencing the 60-day public consultation process required to be undertaken before a decision is made by the Australian Government.
According to Ms D’Ambrosio, the State Government has set ambitious targets for at least two gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2032, 4GW by 2035 and 9GW by 2040.
In the meantime Offshore Wind Energy Victoria (OWEV) is continuing its working with local Traditional Owners to discuss the potential zone and ensure future development of offshore wind in the area is undertaken in a partnership.
OWEV is to assist the Portland community in the consultation process, making sure it is informed and has the opportunity to participate and influence the location of the final declared area,
Ms D’Ambrosio said the addition of a second offshore wind zone in Victoria was welcomed with Portland and surrounding communities harnessing the benefits of the renewable energy transition.
“Victoria is blessed with rich renewable sources, including our windy coastlines, this will help us achieve our renewable energy target of 95 per cent by 2035,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
She said the recently announced Victorian Transmission Investment Framework would ensure that environmental, land-use, cultural and social factors are considered early in the process.
“VicGrid is currently undertaking significant community consultation in Gippsland, Victoria’s first designated offshore wind energy zone, and that process will also be followed in the Portland region,” she said.
“A declared area allows companies to apply for licences to explore the potential for establishing a project within its boundary. Any proposed projects will undergo rigorous Environmental Effects Statement processes.”
Ms D’Ambrosio said the offshore industry was expected to create over 6,000 jobs and generate billions in investment.
To have a say in the process, contact the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water at this PS News link.
