RPS welcomes the Federal Government’s next step for offshore wind development

News that the Federal Government has nominated a specific area of Bass Strait off Gippsland in Victoria for potential offshore wind development has been welcomed by RPS and its clients.

Today, the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, the Hon Chris Bowen released a Notice of Proposal for the declared site off the Gippsland coast.

RPS’ Environment and Approvals Lead, Tony Judd, said the announcement is the next concrete step for the development of a thriving offshore wind industry.

“It is important for those looking to invest in offshore wind have greater clarity about the specific zones that will be officially declared for potential development.

“We have been working with our clients in preparation for this announcement and are very pleased that progress is being made to establish an offshore wind industry in this country.”

The map detailing the declared area off Gippsland has been released for public comment.

“We look forward to hearing what the community thinks about the development of this area for offshore wind farms,” Tony Judd said. “The next step after this, will be to prepare for the invitation to apply for licences. We are making good progress towards seeing the first offshore wind farms being built.”

In addition to the Gippsland Area, the Government has also discussed further zones.

“The Minister has also announced the next zones that will enter the consultation phase including the Pacific Ocean region of Portland in Victoria, the Bass Strait region off northern Tasmania and the Indian Ocean region off Perth and Bunbury in Western Australia.”

The Federal Government has invited the public to comment on the Notice for the proposed Gippsland zone, with submissions to be received by 7 October 2022 in order to be considered.