Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio has unveiled the Offshore Wind Implementation Statement 3, a crucial document that will serve as a guiding framework for the industry and the community in navigating the next phase of Victoria’s offshore wind development.
This landmark development is integral to realising the state’s ambitious renewable energy goals, with targets set at a minimum of 2 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind energy generation by 2032, 4 GW by 2035, and an impressive 9 GW by 2040, according to a media release by the government.
Implementation Statement 3 delineates the parameters for the proposed support package for the initial wave of offshore wind projects in Victoria.
The government said that by providing certainty and confidence to the industry through a competitive auction process slated for 2025, contracts are expected to be awarded in 2026.
The statement also sheds light on VicGrid’s approach to coordinating transmission, utilising its Options Assessment Method developed in consultation with landholders, communities, and stakeholders.
Preferred transmission project options are anticipated to be announced in 2024, the government noted.
With a focus on job creation, the Implementation Statement identifies workforce opportunities across all stages of offshore wind farm development.
This includes employment prospects for Victorians in various sectors, such as trade professions, engineering, administration, and more.
Moreover, Victoria has identified several ports, including the Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at the Port of Hastings, to support and facilitate the establishment of the offshore wind industry.
A fit-for-purpose regulatory framework is concurrently being developed to ensure environmental protection as the industry expands.
To maximise local content and job opportunities, the government is initiating a competitive procurement process outlined in the Implementation Statement.
Additionally, the Renewable Jobs Taskforce will be established to coordinate industry engagement and participation across offshore wind projects, with representation from unions, industry associations, businesses, and the community.
Acknowledging the impact on First Peoples, the Statement underscores the government’s commitment to meaningful steps toward self-determination.
It expresses support for the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation’s aspirations for mutually beneficial agreements with offshore wind developers in the Gippsland area.
Minister D’Ambrosio emphasised that the offshore wind targets are crucial for leading Victoria through the renewable energy transition.
She highlighted the importance of swiftly building significant capacity to replace closing coal-fired power stations.
“We’re taking industry and community with us every step of the way through rigorous consultation, ensuring we achieve the best outcomes for our state, as global businesses compete to for a slice of Victoria’s world-class wind energy resources,” the minister noted.
Acting Minister for Jobs and Industry Colin Brooks expressed the focus on positioning Victoria as Australia’s offshore wind powerhouse.
“Victoria is positioned to be Australia’s offshore wind powerhouse and we are focused on ensuring local industry and workers will benefit,” Brooks remarked.
For more details, the complete Implementation Statement can be accessed on the official website.
