The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources (DISER) is calling for input on the regulatory framework for offshore electricity infrastructure.
Welcoming the opening of consultation, Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Angus Taylor said the country’s first Offshore Electricity Infrastructure (OEI) Framework would enable the development of offshore electricity infrastructure, including offshore wind and electricity transmission projects, in Australian waters.
Mr Taylor said DISER was seeking input on drafts of the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Regulations 2022, Offshore Electricity Infrastructure (Regulatory Levies) Regulations 2022, and Cost Recovery Implementation Statement.
In a statement, DISER said exposure drafts of the first set of regulations set out arrangements for the licensing scheme; fees and levies; spatial referencing (geodetic datum); and treatment of pre-existing infrastructure.
“We are also seeking feedback on the proposed cost recovery,” DISER said.
“The modelling for the fees and levies cover the anticipated Government costs to implement and operate the Framework.”
The Department said this included administering licences; managing compliance and enforcement activities; declaring areas; and developing supporting legislation and policies.
“Our Department, the Offshore Infrastructure Registrar and the Offshore Infrastructure Regulator will administer the Framework on a fully cost recovered basis,” it said.
Mr Taylor said the OEI Framework would create a range of new opportunities by enhancing the delivery of affordable reliable power and creating thousands of new jobs.
The Minister said people could have a say on the draft regulations via an online survey until 22 April.
DISER’s feedback survey can be accessed at this PS News link.
