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Victorian parliament passes bill to support offshore wind energy industry

By: Chloe Emanuel 10/05/2024 The Victorian Parliament

General Windfarms

The Victorian Parliament has recently approved a new bill aimed at bolstering the development of offshore wind energy projects in the region. Titled the Energy and Public Land Legislation Amendment (Enabling Offshore Wind Energy) Bill 2024, the legislation has now been forwarded to the Governor for Royal Assent following deliberations in the Legislative Council.

During the debate, Minister for Climate Action and Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D'Ambrosio, emphasized the significance of the bill, stating that it would provide greater certainty and support for offshore wind project proponents, facilitating seamless project planning and design from Commonwealth waters to the onshore connection points in the Victorian electricity grid.

Victoria has set ambitious targets for offshore wind energy production, aiming for at least 2 gigawatts by 2032, 4 gigawatts by 2035, and 9 gigawatts by 2040.

While the bill received general support, Member for Southern Metropolitan, David Davis, raised concerns on behalf of the opposition regarding the need for a 'fit and proper person test' for offshore wind licensees and emphasized the importance of adequate consultation with local communities.

Jacinta Ermacora, Member for Western Victoria, hailed the bill as the beginning of establishing a robust regulatory framework for offshore wind projects, ensuring community participation, protection of the environment, and acknowledgment of traditional owners' rights throughout the project lifecycle.

Highlighting the potential of offshore wind energy, Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, pointed out that projects like the Star of the South offshore wind venture could significantly contribute to Victoria's electricity needs and generate numerous employment opportunities.

Echoing similar sentiments, Member for Southern Metropolitan, Ryan Batchelor, emphasized the bill's role in providing a clear pathway for offshore wind feasibility assessments and enabling coordinated efforts for connecting projects to the grid.

However, Western Victoria MP Sarah Mansfield stressed the importance of ensuring that the associated checks and balances adequately protect environmental and cultural assets, citing concerns about past instances where such measures failed to prevent environmental degradation.

The passage of the bill marks a significant step forward in Victoria's renewable energy journey, promising a greener and more sustainable future while addressing key concerns regarding community engagement and environmental safeguards.

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

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Victorian parliament passes bill to support offshore wind energy industry

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