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Australian Government declares offshore wind development zone off Illawarra coast

By: Chloe Emanuel 17/06/2024 The Australian Government

Corporate General Turbines Windfarms

The Australian Government has designated an area in the Pacific Ocean off the Illawarra coast in New South Wales (NSW) for the development of offshore wind energy. This zone, stretching between Wombarra and Kiama, has the potential to generate up to 2.9 GW of renewable wind energy, sufficient to power approximately 1.8 million homes.

With the planned closure of around 90% of Australia’s aging coal fired power stations by 2035, the transition to reliable and clean energy sources like offshore wind is crucial for maintaining electricity supply to homes, businesses, and communities.

Following extensive consultation, which included reviewing over 14,200 submissions and engaging with community members, First Nations people, government, and industry stakeholders, the declared area has been adjusted to address feedback. The finalised zone is smaller than initially proposed, positioned 20 kilometres offshore to reduce visual impact, and designed to ensure the safe management of shipping to and from Port Kembla.

Importantly, it also avoids significant environmental areas, including marine parks, a biologically important area for the Little Penguin, Shelf Rocky Reef Key Ecological Feature, and Southern Right Whale migration and reproduction areas.

Although offshore wind projects cannot be built immediately, companies interested in developing these projects can apply for feasibility licences between 17 June and 15 August 2024. The process will involve further investigations, environmental assessments, and approvals, along with continued consultation with local communities, government, industry, and First Nations people. Companies are expected to maximise local content and demonstrate their commitment to local and Australian communities by using Australian goods and services.

For more information about offshore wind farm projects across the globe, click here.

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Australian Government declares offshore wind development zone off Illawarra coast

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