Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen has opened consultation on an offshore wind zone in Bass Strait off Tasmania’s north coast—the fifth zone of its kind in Australian waters.
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The Commonwealth is seeking feedback on the proposed zone, which is least 20km from shore at its closest point, and 10,136 square kilometres.
Submissions to the consultation can be made any time until 31 January and the consultation will include five community drop-in sessions along the north coast of Tasmania from Burnie to Bridport, and Whitemark on Flinders Island in December, with more sessions to come in late January 2024.
Bowen said the consultation would provide a genuine opportunity for communities to have their say in the first part of the process for developing an offshore wind industry in Tasmania.
“The Bass Strait is renowned for its offshore wind resource—and this potential zone could transform Tasmania into a new clean energy powerhouse, spurring investment in Tasmanian communities, providing energy security for decarbonising heavy industry and creating thousands of jobs.”
Tasmanian Minister for Energy and Renewables Nick Duigan said, “We are proud of our 100 years of hydro development which has made us a leader in the use of clean and sustainable renewable energy, and we believe offshore wind will enable us to take that legacy to the next level.
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“The state needs more renewable electricity to put downward pressure on prices, secure our energy security, provide for the demand our growing economy and future industries need and continue our nation-leading zero emissions status.”
