Chris Bowen firmly believes the Hunter being home to a world-class offshore wind farm is a “great opportunity” for the region.
Which is why the Minister for Climate Change and Energy implores everyone – from residents to business owners, environmentalists to community groups – to participate in the consultation process for the $10 billion project, which was unveiled this week.
The 5,000-square-kilometre “zone”, located in the Pacific Ocean, extends from Norah Head in the south to Port Stephens in the north.
Turbines are expected to be located between 10 kilometres and 30 kilometres off the coast, due to the Department of Defence’s (DoD) request.
“It will provide up to eight gigawatts of power, which is a lot, compared to an average power station,” Mr Bowen said.
“That’s enough for six million homes, so it’s a big deal.
“As an economic driver, we’re talking about directly employing 4,800 jobs in construction and 2,400 ongoing.
“Offshore wind is important because it’s energy-rich, it’s windy off our coast and it tends to be gustier at night.
“So, it’s absolutely vital for our clean energy future – and that of the Hunter.
“It is big numbers in terms of energy generated and jobs.”
Mr Bowen admitted the number of turbines would depend on the consultation process, which is now underway until 28 April.
“Once I’ve declared the zone, I’ll take time to go through the submissions and consider the issues raised,” he said.
“Then I’ll formally declare the zone as a matter of law.
“When I do that, we’ll then seek Expressions of Interest (EoI) for licences.
“That’s when we’ll have a clearer idea of turbines and locations within the zone.
“It’s a multi-step process to make sure we get it right.
“But, we’re going to need an offshore wind industry well on the way to operating in the lead-up to 2030.
“We’ve only been in government nine months… however, this is our second zone underway (after Gippsland).
“We’re catching up on a decade of delay and denial – we’re getting on with the job.”
Mr Bowen was insistent no stone would be left unturned.
“We’ll weigh up environmental factors, while the proponents must go through approvals, too,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“We will consider marine life, bird life and all the impacts.
“Around the world, wind farms coexist with whales and vibrant sea life, so there are measures you can put in to cover that.
“However, everything will be factored in when we deliver the original zone.
“Even the Port of Newcastle is taken into account.
“I was in Rotterdam a few weeks ago, which has one of the world’s largest ports.
“They have wind turbines in the port – and all around.
“So, you can navigate your way through all of this.
“We’ve also consulted with the DoD, who’ve had input into where the zone goes.
“Newcastle has one of the busiest ports in the world.
“But, it’s adaptable to change.
“Offshore wind requires a lot of maintenance because it’s so windy – and turbines require more maintenance than onshore wind.
“They need ships to take the workers out, so it’s great news for maritime employees.”
While the region’s already known for its strong industrial hub, with mining, manufacturing and agriculture, Mr Bowen feels it also boasts the skills base for new industry.
“This [Hunter] zone is our best estimate of what we think is a good zone,” he said.
“It’s our preferred starting position.
“Establishment of an offshore wind farm in the Hunter could support the decarbonisation and future of onshore manufacturing powered by cheaper, cleaner energy.
“It also presents significant opportunities to create a new sector and jobs, drive economic growth and reduce emissions.
“So, we need people to have their say on the proposed area.
“To give you an idea of the [consultation] process, I put out a zone in the Gippsland.
“There was strong support in one section and, in another, there were more community concerns, around the Wilsons Promontory (National Park).
“I thought some of those were well-put.
“Hence the zone was changed as a result of that consultation.
“So, it’s a real, genuine process.
“The Hunter should be assured they’ll be heard.
“I know sometimes you fill out a survey and you think no-one will read it.
“But, this will be studied and it will be considered in the final decision.”
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is also scheduled to facilitate information sessions throughout the region.
For more information on the Hunter offshore electricity area public consultation, visit https://consult.dcceew.gov.au/oei-hunter.
Information sessions
Wamberal (Monday 6 March)
- 2pm to 4pm: Breakers Country Club, Dover Road
Doyalson (Tuesday 7 March)
- 10.30am to 12.30pm: The Doylo, Pacific Highway
Swansea (Tuesday 7 March)
- 4pm to 6pm: Swansea RSL, Bridge Street
Newcastle 1 (Wednesday 8 March)
- Noon to 2pm: Newcastle City Library, War Memorial Cultural Centre, Laman Road
Newcastle 2 (Wednesday 8 March)
- 4pm to 7pm: Bar Beach Bowling Club – Terrace, Kilgour Ave, Merewether
Hawks Nest (Thursday 9 March)
- 11am to 1pm: Hawks Nest Community Centre, Booner Street
Nelson Bay (Thursday 9 March)
- 5pm to 7pm: Nelson Bay Bowling Club, Stockton Street
For more news stories:
- Greens plan Hunter’s transition from coal
- Hunter offshore wind project opens door to job, investment opportunities
- Newcastle man charged with online child sex offence
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