Renewable Energy

Local economic opportunities

South Gippsland is well positioned to participate in the emerging offshore wind industry.

The region has established energy-sector capabilities, industrial land, existing businesses and a skilled workforce, as well as access to important marine infrastructure.

In particular, Barry Beach and Port Anthony have the potential to support offshore wind operations and maintenance and other activities associated with the emerging industry.

Council is advocating for appropriate investment and planning to enable South Gippsland businesses, workers and infrastructure to participate in the offshore wind supply chain.

The objective is for South Gippsland to be more than the location of offshore wind infrastructure. Council wants the region to be positioned to capture the long-term economic opportunities created by the industry.

Why is the Gippsland region well suited for potential renewable energy projects?

1. It's close to electricity markets and existing connections to the grid.
2. The industry is very interested in developing projects in the area.
3. The Victorian Government has prioritised the area for development of an offshore wind industry.

 

South Gippsland is home to four ports. With an array of offshore wind farms proposed for the Bass Strait off the Gippsland coast, these ports will become a crucial consideration for these projects.

The ports in South Gippsland include:

• Barry Beach Marine Terminal.
• Port Anthony.
• Port Welshpool.
• Port Franklin.

Two of these ports are located at Barry Beach, these are the Barry Beach Marine Terminal and Port Anthony. Activities to support the Bass Strait oil and gas development have been occurring from Barry Beach for over 50 years. The two ports are well placed to support the Operations and Maintenance of the Offshore Wind Energy sector, as stated in the Victorian Offshore Wind Implementation Statement 3.