Australia's Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, has made a preliminary decision to grant a feasibility licence for the 1.2GW Spinifex offshore wind project in the Southern Ocean off Victoria's coast.
The project, developed by Alinta Energy and Parkwind, a subsidiary of JERA Nex, is set to move forward into the next stage of the licensing process.
The feasibility licence allows the project developers to consult with impacted organisations, including First Nations groups, and conduct detailed environmental studies to assess viability. They will also develop management plans for each stage of the project.
Bowen highlighted the project's significance for the region, stating: “Offshore wind represents a huge opportunity for regional Australia, providing reliable renewables to power homes and heavy industry while creating highly skilled and well-paid jobs now and into the future.”
The project is expected to contribute to Southwest Victoria's energy supply, supporting job creation and the local economy.
