Consultation opens for offshore wind industry off the Hunter

The Minister for Climate Change and Energy has today launched a consultation period on a new offshore wind zone in the Pacific Ocean off the Hunter.

This proposed offshore wind area sits alongside the Hunter, an area already known for its strong industrial base, with mining, manufacturing and agriculture, proving this region already has the skill base for the new industry. 

The consultation process is an opportunity for all community members, workers, residents, industry groups and chambers of commerce to provide feedback. Submissions will run from February 23 to April 28. 

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water will also facilitate community information sessions, which will be held throughout the region during the consultation period.

The Hunter is one of six priority regions around Australia with world-class offshore wind potential. The Commonwealth recently declared Gippsland off the La Trobe Valley as the first region in Australia to be home to a new offshore wind industry and the Government has previously announced a further four regions earmarked for offshore wind zones.

For more information on the Hunter offshore electricity area public consultation, visit https://consult.dcceew.gov.au/oei-hunter