The Australian Government has formally declared an offshore wind zone in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of the Hunter.
This is Australia’s second officially declared offshore wind zone. According to the Federal Government, with the location in the heart of heavy industry, it will assist future onshore manufacturing and energy security in NSW for decades to come.
The announcement follows two months of public consultation with a smaller footprint than the initially proposed zone — balancing the views of the local community, local industry, and sea users.
The declared area spans over 1,800 km2 between Swansea and Port Stephens and has the potential to generate up to 5GW of wind energy, enough to power an estimated 4.2 million households and local industries into the future.
The amended zone will be 20 kilometres north of the coast and more than 35 kilometres south of the coast.
The Federal Government noted that the changes allow for the ongoing safe management of shipping and other sea industries. To ensure aviation safety, offshore infrastructure would be limited to a height of 260 metres.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the declaration was another critical step for Australia to realise the enormous advantages of offshore wind.
“The Hunter is undergoing significant economic change, and the prospect of creating new job opportunities for decades to come through a new offshore wind industry is a game changer,” Minister Bowen stated.
The Minister noted that the announcement opens the door for a new sector in Hunter, which could generate over 3,000 construction jobs and another 1,560 ongoing jobs.
Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon MP said it was a thrilling opportunity for Newcastle to diversify its economy while also being home to a new offshore wind sector.
“This is an important part of a suite of measures which will position Newcastle and the Hunter as a clean energy hub, including an $100 million investment to ensure hydrogen readiness at the Port of Newcastle. Newcastle has a bright future,” she stated.
Applications for feasibility licences for offshore wind projects in the Hunter region will be accepted from 8 August to 14 November 2023.
Developers will be expected to conduct more engagement on specific plans during the feasibility licencing stage, including extensive environmental studies and implications on other marine users.
Construction can commence only if the feasibility stage is finished and environmental and management plan approvals are obtained.
