The offshore wind industry is another step closer with the Australian Government announcing feasibility licence decisions for the Southern Ocean and Hunter zones.
Feasibility licences have been offered in two offshore wind zones:
- Hunter, New South Wales, to Novocastrian Wind Pty Ltd.
- Southern Ocean, Victoria, to Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm Pty Ltd.
These projects have the potential to inject hundreds of millions of dollars into our regional economies, support local businesses, and create hundreds of ongoing well-paid jobs for:
- engineers
- technicians
- operators
- riggers
- divers
- other professionals.
Dedicated Wind Industry Committees in these regions will be established to ensure local communities can maximise economic and social benefits from the offshore wind industry.
Over the next 7 years, the feasibility of licensed project proposals will be tested, and before any offshore wind farms are constructed the feasibility licence holders must:
- develop management plans
- undertake environmental assessments
- obtain environmental approvals
- consult with marine users, the community and First Nation groups.
These offshore wind projects have the potential to power millions of homes with clean renewable energy and strengthen our energy security. They will also support onshore manufacturing and create skilled and well-paid jobs in regional areas.
