Latrobe Valley locals are being invited to a community engagement session to learn about what could be the largest offshore wind farm in the southern hemisphere to be built off the Bass Coast.
Star of the South has started a feasibility study into a project in which about 250 wind turbines would produce 18 per cent of Victoria’s energy needs.
Star of the South chief executive Andy Evans said they were looking into detailed designs of the $8-$9 billion project slated to be built 10 to 20 kilometres off the Yarram coastline.
He said the project could be hooked into Latrobe Valley electricity infrastructure and run along underground sea cables.
Danish green financers fund Copenhagen Infrastructure Partnership entered into a long-term agreement with the project last December.
Mr Evans said community members would be able to ask about project timelines, environmental impacts, local jobs and economic opportunities.
“Construction is still years away. Our studies will take two to three years and there will be a whole approval process,” Mr Evans said.
“We believe there is a need for large scale energy with the closure of Hazelwood and forecast power station closures.
“Our key remit is to optimise jobs in the Latrobe Valley. There is great opportunity to use local coal and offshore gas expertise.”
Mr Evans said offshore wind meant they would not be restricted by land size or have to worry about noise impacts on surrounding residents.
“One reason to put it out at sea is that you can’t see or hear the turbines and the wind blows all the time. It will create artificial reefs which will generate more fishing opportunities in the area,” he said.
Mr Evans said that section of coast was also shielded by a series of islands that would reduce the visible impact of the turbines from the mainland.
The community engagement session will be held in Morwell on Tuesday, May 29 at the Italian Australian Sporting Club, from 6pm-8pm.
