The Albanese Government has offered a feasibility license for the Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm Project, marking a significant step toward establishing an offshore wind industry in southwest Victoria.
The proposed project by Alinta Energy and Parkwind could generate 1.2 gigawatts of electricity, enough to supply around 10 percent of Victoria’s current electricity needs, equivalent to powering 650,000 homes.
If it proceeds, the Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm would create hundreds of jobs during construction and operation, injecting hundreds of millions of dollars into the regional economy.
It has the potential to support future onshore manufacturing in Victoria, building on the local industrial expertise and infrastructure in Portland and surrounding areas.
To maximise the project’s economic and social benefits, the government will convene a Southern Ocean Wind Industry Committee.
This committee will bring together the license holder, state and local governments, First Nations groups, local industry, and workers’ representatives to ensure local content, job creation, and broader community benefits.
The project developers have already identified local businesses and industries to be involved and will implement a community benefit-sharing program.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen will undertake further consultation with First Nations groups before making a final decision on the feasibility license.
Ongoing consultation with local communities, unions, and marine users will continue throughout the feasibility process.
If feasibility is proven, the developer must obtain all necessary approvals, including rigorous environmental assessments, before applying for a commercial license to enable construction to commence.
The Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm project is part of the Albanese Government’s Reliable Renewables Plan, aimed at unlocking regional jobs and energy security through the development of an offshore wind industry in Australia.
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