Hunter-based Nationals Senator Ross Cadell is calling for Chris Bowen’s head after Equinor pulled out of the $10 billion offshore wind farm off Port Stephens.
The decision from the Norwegian energy giant, the major proponent behind Novocastrian Offshore Wind, comes after months of investment uncertainty across the industry.
However, a joint statement on the venture’s website confirmed the company’s resolution in abandoning its role in the controversial project.
“We’ve made the decision to not proceed with the feasibility licence offered by the Australian Government for Novocastrian Offshore Wind located in the Hunter offshore wind zone,” Novocastrian Wind Pty Ltd said.
“This reflects a combination of broader global challenges affecting the industry and developers… and project-specific factors.
“We recognise this will be disappointing to many across the Hunter region and the broader energy sector.
“The Australian Government has taken important steps to advance the energy transition and establish a framework for offshore wind in Australia.
“These efforts have played an important role in progressing the offshore wind industry and projects like Novocastrian Offshore Wind.
“We’d like to acknowledge the vision and leadership of Andy Evans and Peter Sgardelis, the two founders of Oceanex Energy, who established the project in early 2020, and their partner Green Tower.
“Since Equinor entered alongside Oceanex Energy in late 2022, significant work has been undertaken, combining Oceanex’s local knowledge and expertise and Equinor’s strong project management and global experience, resulting in a proposal that led to Novocastrian Offshore Wind being the only party offered a feasibility licence in the Hunter zone.
“The Hunter was selected for its strong characteristics for an offshore wind industry, including a legacy of heavy industry and innovation, established infrastructure, regional supply chain potential, and high-quality wind resources.
“We continue to view the region as well-positioned to lead Australia’s energy transition.
“While the feasibility licence has not been accepted, Oceanex Energy remains committed to exploring options for offshore wind to support jobs, investment, energy supply and security, and prosperity for the Hunter and NSW.
“Equinor is steadfast to a low-carbon future.
“With over 20 years of experience in offshore wind development, we are one of the largest offshore wind developers globally.
“While we are not progressing with this feasibility licence, we believe Australia continues to have a significant role to play in the global energy transition, with its world-class wind resources, industrial capability, and the potential to develop a competitive offshore wind sector over time.”
But, Mr Cadell said it confirmed what the everyday people of Port Stephens already knew.
“Floating offshore wind is nothing more than a Labor-fuelled fairy dust fantasy,” he stated.
“The party remains out-of-touch with both industry and local communities.
“For more than two years, Mr Bowen has treated the people of Port Stephens and the Illawarra with complete contempt.
“He’s continued to scream from the mountains about an energy plan that even he, deep in his own heart, knew wouldn’t work.
“Despite that, he has tortured everyday Australians with his floating renewable fantasy, so unbelievable it wouldn’t be out of place alongside a flying car in The Jetsons.
“Chris Bowen should not just admit fault but get in the car and visit Port Stephens and the Illawarra to apologise.
“He has made these communities suffer for too long. “Now, he should show up… and own his mistake.”
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