The Victorian Government has opened the expression of interest (EOI) for a company to build the transmission required to connect new Gippsland offshore wind farms to the state’s electricity grid.
Through the process, VicGrid will select the best private sector organisations to help it design, build, finance, operate and maintain the onshore transmission infrastructure.
The State Government said VicGrid is looking for a development and construction partner that will work closely with local communities, Traditional Owners and landholders while driving value for money for Victorian energy users.
The project is expected to create an average of 600 jobs a year in the construction phase, peaking at 1460 during 2027. Construction is expected to commence in late 2027 and the infrastructure will begin operating in 2030.
The transmission to support offshore wind is subject to an Environmental Effects Statement process, which is now underway and involves a thorough investigation of the potential environmental impacts of the project, including social, agricultural and economic aspects.
The Victorian Government said the state is leading the development of offshore wind in Australia and the new industry will help secure Victoria’s energy future, driving regional economic development and achieving legislated 95 per cent renewable energy targets by 2035.
The State Government said it is making sure communities, landowners and Traditional Owners that host crucial energy infrastructure benefit from the energy transition.
Communities and Traditional Owners that host new transmission lines will benefit from special funds created by the Victorian Government. The funds recognise the important role that rural and regional communities are playing in the renewable energy transition.
Landowners that host transmission infrastructure will receive $200,000 per kilometre of transmission hosted on their properties, which is on top of existing compensation arrangements, which cover the loss of land value.
Companies who wish place an expression of interest or are seeking further information can visit tenders.vic.gov.au.
Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, said, “We are getting on with the job of developing Australia’s first offshore wind industry which will deliver affordable and reliable power to Victorian homes and businesses.
“Industry has a crucial role to play in the energy transition and we are looking for a transmission partner that shares our commitment to deliver the best outcomes for local communities in Gippsland.”
