The Andrews Labor Government continues to lead the way in developing Australia’s first offshore wind industry, with early consultations starting on new transmission connections needed for our first offshore wind farms.

Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio today announced that VicGrid has begun public consultation in Gippsland and Portland on a coordinated approach to new transmission connections that are essential for offshore wind.

The Labor Government has set ambitious targets for at least 2 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2032, 4GW by 2035 and 9GW by 2040 – the equivalent to six Yallourn coal fired power stations. The industry is expected to create over 6,000 jobs and generate billions in investment.

For our offshore wind industry to thrive, and to ensure that we have enough new capacity to power the state as ageing coal-fired generators retire, we need new connections to carry this renewable energy to homes and businesses across the state.

VicGrid will ensure new transmission is available in time to support Victoria’s first offshore wind farm, coordinate planning to avoid a ‘spaghetti effect’ of multiple lines criss-crossing the landscape and minimise energy costs for households and businesses.

Traditional Owners, communities and stakeholders across Gippsland and Portland need to be at the heart of the work. VicGrid, will lead four phases of planned, respectful and ongoing public engagement to share information and ensure local values and concerns are actively considered in the development of the new transmission.

VicGrid has prepared a Development and Engagement Roadmap 2023. This will provide information on VicGrid’s role and development approach, invite feedback on the approach, and establish ongoing consultation and coordination arrangements.

Phase One of the plan will begin immediately with direct, place-based engagement with Traditional Owners, communities and stakeholders. Only after this process of information sharing will VicGrid commence developing preferred options for routes, which will be informed by the feedback received through Phase One.

For more information and to get involved, visit engage.vic.gov.au.

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio

“Victoria will be the home of Australia’s first offshore wind farms – we’re working on new transmission connections to ensure all Victorian homes and businesses can access the benefits of this cheaper and cleaner energy source.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“We want to make sure local communities and stakeholders have a real voice in planning this crucial infrastructure so that it can benefit all Victorians.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora

“We’re keen to hear from the Portland community on how we can deliver these new connections – giving local communities the benefits of cheaper renewable energy through wind.”