“The Bass Strait has truly world-class wind resources, with sustained wind speeds of more than 8 metres per second,” Energy Minister Chris Bowen.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the new distance would make wind turbines much less visible – after feedback from industry, fishers, local leaders, unions, First Nations people and community groups.
“The Bass Strait has truly world-class wind resources, with sustained wind speeds of more than 8 metres per second,” he said.
“Harnessing this power and capitalising on Tasmania’s highly skilled workforce with decades of experience in engineering, logistics and infrastructure can provide energy security for Australian homes and businesses, future proof existing industry and power new green energy industries.”
The government says the zone could create up to 12,000 jobs in construction and 6,000 ongoing roles in fields like engineering, seafaring and cable installation.
It says the zone could support up to 20 gigawatts of round-the-clock energy — more than half of the current electricity demand across south-east Australia.
What happens now?
Wind farm proponents wishing to use the zone will be able to apply for feasibility licences from now until March next year.
If granted, the licences will allow developers to assess whether their projects are viable.
The Tasmanian government has already signed a memorandum of understanding with a group called the Bass Offshore Wind Energy project (BOWE), which has proposed a wind farm for Bass Strait.
The declaration of the offshore zone means BOWE can now proceed to the feasibility stage.
Developments will also need a commercial licence and environmental approvals.
Mr Bowen said turbines won’t be popping up in the region any time soon.
“This won’t be happening in this side of 2030, this will be a process which is important for the future, but it’s not one that is sort of around the corner,” he said.
Tasmanian Energy Minister Nick Duigan has welcomed the offshore declaration.
“An offshore wind industry can help our state maximise its potential as a green energy powerhouse, creating thousands of new jobs and cleaner, cheaper energy and contributing toward our nation-leading 200 per cent by 2040 Renewable Energy Target,” the Liberal MP said.
