The Australian offshore wind industry has progressed with the government announcing feasibility licence decisions for the Southern Ocean and Hunter offshore wind zones. Feasibility licences have been granted to Novocastrian Wind Pty Ltd for the Hunter zone in New South Wales and to Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm Pty Ltd for the Southern Ocean zone in Victoria.
Over the next seven years, the licence holders will need to develop management plans, conduct environmental assessments, obtain necessary approvals, and engage with local communities, marine users, and First Nations groups before any wind farm construction can begin.
Novocastrian Wind Pty Ltd, a partnership between Equinor and Oceanex Energy, has been awarded a feasibility licence for its planned offshore wind farm in the Hunter offshore wind area. The project will be located at least 22 kilometres off the coast and has the potential to generate 2GW of renewable electricity.
To ensure local economic and social benefits, a Hunter Wind Industry Committee has been established, bringing together Novocastrian Wind, representatives from state and local governments, First Nations groups, and industry stakeholders. This committee will work to integrate local supply chains and employment opportunities. The feasibility studies will also involve community consultations, environmental assessments, and engagement with the fishing industry to address any potential impacts. If Novocastrian Wind obtains all necessary approvals, it will then be eligible to apply for a commercial licence to move forward with construction.
In Victoria, the Albanese Government has confirmed its decision to grant a feasibility licence to Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm Pty Ltd for the Southern Ocean offshore wind zone. Following a preliminary offer in September, this final decision enables Spinifex to proceed with its planned wind farm covering 265 km2 within the larger 1,030 km2 designated zone. The project has the potential to generate 1.2GW of renewable electricity, supplying around 10% of Victoria’s energy needs. Throughout the feasibility phase, the project will involve community consultation and environmental assessments. Additionally, Spinifex must work with the fishing industry to avoid, mitigate, and offset any potential impacts.
To oversee offshore wind development in Victoria, a Southern Ocean Wind Industry Committee has been established. Comprising representatives from Spinifex, the Victorian and local governments, First Nations groups, and industry stakeholders, the committee aims to ensure that local communities and businesses benefit from the offshore wind sector.
Both Novocastrian Wind and Spinifex must complete their feasibility studies and secure all necessary regulatory approvals before applying for commercial licences.
