The Clean Energy Council (CEC) has welcomed the announcement by the Allan Government today to progress Victoria’s first offshore wind auction, which the industry's peak body said will help to establish a new clean energy industry in the state, delivering jobs, investment and reliable power for decades to come.
The process will seek proposals for an initial 2 GW of offshore wind capacity, moving projects closer to construction and long-term operation in Victoria, and creating new opportunities for workers and local businesses.
Jackie Trad, Clean Energy Council Chief Executive, said the announcement marked an important step in progressing offshore wind projects toward delivery.
“The CEC welcomes the announcement by the Allan Government that the Victorian offshore wind industry auction will proceed in August this year. The auction is a critical step towards delivering the offshore industry in Victoria and moving projects towards the delivery phase,” Ms Trad said.
“Offshore wind is an important part of the future electricity mix supporting system security and reliability in the grid as ageing coal fired power exits the system,” she said.
The generating potential of offshore wind will play a vital role in maintaining reliability in Victoria’s power system as ageing coal fired generators retire, with stronger and more consistent wind resources enabling large scale projects to deliver power more predictably across the day and year.Jackie Trad Clean Energy Council CEO
Offshore wind is expected to generate strong employment across construction, manufacturing, ports and ongoing operations, with significant flow on benefits for regional supply chains, particularly in Gippsland.
Victoria’s energy workforce is projected to grow to more than 67,000 workers by 2040 - more than double its current size, with offshore wind alone supporting a peak construction workforce of around 2370 jobs alongside 4269 workers in onshore wind.
"The generating potential of offshore wind will play a vital role in maintaining reliability in Victoria’s power system as ageing coal fired generators retire, with stronger and more consistent wind resources enabling large scale projects to deliver power more predictably across the day and year," she said.
The Victorian Government’s announcement follows recent progress in Western Australia, where the state’s first offshore wind projects are being progressed, highlighting growing national momentum for the sector.
Ms Trad said industry remained focused on working closely with governments and communities as the sector develops.
“We look forward to working constructively with governments to ensure offshore wind projects are delivered responsibly with strong community engagement, environmental protections and benefits for local workers and businesses," she said.
ENDS
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Danielle Tricarico
Clean Energy Council General Manager - Media
Liam Straughan
Clean Energy Council Media Officer
+61 409 470 683
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