Bass Strait off the Gippsland coast has today been declared as an offshore renewable energy zone, a move welcomed by Australia’s most advanced offshore wind project, Star of the South.
Star of the South Chief Executive Officer Charles Rattray said the declaration puts Gippsland on course to become the home of Australia’s offshore wind industry.
“With strong winds, existing grid infrastructure and a skilled workforce, Gippsland is ideally positioned to capitalise on the jobs and investment offshore wind will bring to the region,” he said.
“This announcement means greater certainty for the industry, local supply chains, and communities as Australia looks to secure a clean energy future.”
“Offshore wind will play a critical role in Australia’s energy system going forward – it is pleasing to receive clarity from government on the boundaries for offshore wind projects, allowing us to take the next steps and continue investing in the region.”
The news comes as Star of the South is recognised as a project of national significance by the Australian Government, achieving Major Project Status. This decision acknowledges the project’s contribution to the Australian, Victorian and Gippsland economies and towards the nation’s net zero plans.
Star of the South is one of around 25 projects across Australia with Major Project Status.
Mr Rattray said Major Project Status will help the project navigate government approvals processes spanning several departments and jurisdictions.
“Star of the South is investing in the local economy while also supporting the transition of energy and jobs,” he said.
“As the most advanced offshore wind project in Australia, we’re helping pave the way for this new industry to grow, so this is good news for everyone involved.”
“Major Project Status will boost coordination and efficiency in how we work with government so the best possible outcomes can be reached as soon as possible.”
About Star of the South
Star of the South is Australia’s most advanced offshore wind project, proposed to be located off the Wellington 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 for up to 1.2 million homes. The project is in the feasibility phase with environmental assessments currently underway to inform project planning and approvals.
If Star of the South is approved and proceeds to construction, works could start around the middle of this decade with first power around the end of the decade. The project is majority owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners’ flagship fund – CI IV, together with Cbus Super and Australian founders.
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners P/S is the world’s largest dedicated fund manager within greenfield renewable energy investments and a leader in offshore wind globally. CIP has ambition and a roadmap for accelerating its role in delivering on the energy transition by deploying EUR 100bn into green energy investments by 2030.
