29 November 2023
VicGrid has finalised the community-informed assessment tool it will use to make decisions about corridor areas, connection points and technologies for offshore wind transmission.
Using the Options Assessment Method
VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker said the Victorian Government body, which is responsible for coordinating the development of the state’s vital offshore wind transmission, would use the Options Assessment Method to select preferred options for the necessary infrastructure.
This is the third phase in VicGrid’s process to determine options for offshore wind transmission. In phase 2 it sought feedback on how it should balance a range of different factors. It has now published the results of that work: the final Options Assessment Method and Phase 2 Engagement Summary Report.
View the Options Assessment Method and Phase 2 Engagement Summary Report
Next steps announced in early 2024
Preferred options for the transmission to support offshore wind and next steps will be announced in early 2024.
Communities have been helping us make decisions about the location of infrastructure to transport the energy generated by offshore wind into the grid, Mr Parker said.
We have heard from communities that impacts on the environment, landholders and existing land uses are important considerations - and that benefits of development should be shared fairly.
We have also heard that minimising bill impacts for consumers is an important consideration. To plan this infrastructure, we need to make difficult decisions about how to balance all of these different factors alongside technical considerations, and we need community input to inform those decisions.
All of the feedback we receive will help us get this right so we can reduce impacts and make sure local communities benefit as we help enable this important new energy source for all Victorians.
The final Options Assessment Method sets out the criteria VicGrid will consider in its decision-making and the engagement summary report reflects what we have heard from landholders, communities, and stakeholders.
Respecting Traditional Owners as rights holders
VicGrid is committed to respecting Traditional Owners as rights holders and seeking to partner with them throughout the planning and delivery of this infrastructure.
Victoria has some of the best offshore wind resources in the world. For our offshore wind industry to thrive, and to play its role as a key pillar in Victoria’s renewable energy transition, we need new transmission to carry this energy to homes and businesses across the state.
The Victorian Government has tasked VicGrid with coordinating the development of transmission infrastructure to support offshore wind and established Offshore Wind Energy Victoria (OWEV) in January 2023 to coordinate the development of the state’s offshore wind sector.
The Australian Government is currently assessing feasibility licence applications from offshore wind proponents in Gippsland.
A proposed area off the coast of Portland is under consideration.
Page last updated: 29/11/23