Australian Govt Seeks Input for Offshore Wind Regulatory Framework

The government is developing the regulatory framework to enable the exploration, construction, operation and decommissioning of offshore wind and other clean energy technologies and associated infrastructure in Commonwealth waters beyond three nautical miles from the coast.

The discussion period opened on 3 January and parties are free to provide their feedback on the proposal by 28 February.

According to the government, the proposal brings together its experience in the regulation of other sectors with best practice for offshore energy regulation overseas.

A discussion paper and process map outlining the proposed regulatory framework have been developed. Information sessions will be held in Perth and Melbourne in mid-February.

To remind, Offshore Energy and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) are developing Star of the South, what is to be Australia’s first offshore wind project.

Located off the south coast of Gippsland, Victoria, Star of the South could comprise up to 250 turbines with a combined capacity of up to 2GW. If given the go-ahead, construction could start this year.