The Morrison Government has released draft regulations for Australia’s Offshore Electricity Infrastructure (OEI) framework for public consultation.
Australia’s first OEI framework, enabled by legislation introduced by the government in late 2021, will enable the development of offshore electricity infrastructure, including offshore wind and electricity transmission projects, in Commonwealth waters.
The public consultation will be open from 22 March until 22 April 2022.
“Today’s release of the supporting regulations for the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure legislative framework marks an important next step in supporting a new offshore industry in Australia,” minister Angus Taylor said.
“This will create a range of important new opportunities, particularly in our regions, by enhancing the delivery of affordable reliable power and creating thousands of new jobs.”
“It will accelerate a number of projects already under development such as Star of the South and the Marinus Link transmission line, which will connect the mainland to Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation project.”
Assistant minister to the Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Tim Wilson said: “We want feedback from the sector so that the OEI framework can provide clarity and certainty to investors wanting to build Australia’s offshore energy future to deliver for households, workers, and industrial consumers.”
Star of the South chief development officer Erin Coldham said the developer welcomes the first stage of regulations and acknowledge the extensive work by the Australian Government to date.
Coldham said: “We look forward to participating in the government consultation process, to provide feedback on timely, fit for purpose, and appropriately staged regulations and oversight.”
Offshore wind projects have long lead times, especially in new markets like Australia where no offshore wind projects have previously been built.
“Momentum from government, investors and developers will need to continue at pace to help offset the loss of existing generation and for new opportunities to be realised,” Coldham added.