Star of the South welcomes offshore wind regulations

22 March 2022

Australia’s first offshore wind project - Star of the South - has welcomed Australian Government consultation on the first stage of Offshore Electricity Regulations as the latest positive development for accelerating the sector.

As Australia’s first and most progressed offshore wind project, Star of the South has the potential to be operating off the south coast of Gippsland in Victoria before the end of the decade.

The commencement of this latest consultation process is a welcome sign that government is serious about facilitating offshore wind development. It will be critical for ongoing industry and regional economic development that the next steps - including finalising the regulations and getting on with the first projects - occurs as soon as possible.

Ongoing coordination between federal and state governments is also required to address potential environmental, social, and economic impacts and benefits, as projects progress through necessary planning approval processes.

Quotes attributable to Star of the South Chief Development Officer, Erin Coldham

“A local offshore wind sector will deliver clean energy, cut emissions, and create jobs for Australians. Now is the time to make it happen by keeping momentum and prioritising the Gippsland coast for offshore wind development.”

“We welcome the first stage of regulations and acknowledge the extensive work by the Australian Government to date – this is great progress.“

“We look forward to participating in the government consultation process, to provide feedback on timely, fit for purpose, and appropriately staged regulations and oversight.”

“Offshore wind projects have long lead times – this is especially true in new markets like Australia where no offshore wind projects have previously been built, so momentum from government, investors and developers will need to continue at pace to help offset the loss of existing generation and for new opportunities to be realised.”

“As existing power stations come to the end of their life, offshore wind will help continue energy investment and jobs in regions like Gippsland. We’re working with Latrobe Valley businesses to explore job and supply chain opportunities.”

About Star of the South

Star of the South is Australia’s first offshore wind project, proposed to be located off the south coast of Gippsland in Victoria. Star of the South would help meet energy, emissions reduction, and economic goals by supplying secure, reliable, and affordable power into the future. Star of the South has the potential to power 1.2 million homes, or nearly 20% of the State’s energy needs. The project is in the feasibility phase with environmental assessments currently underway to support planning and approvals. If Star of the South is approved and proceeds to construction, works could start by the middle of this decade with full power before the end of the decade.