Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for a company to build the necessary transmission to connect Gippsland’s new offshore wind farms to the grid.
The Victorian Government is leading the development of offshore wind in Australia to deliver affordable, renewable energy to households and businesses.
Through the EOI process, VicGrid will select the best private sector organisations to help it design, build, finance, operate and maintain the onshore transmission infrastructure.
VicGrid is looking for a development and construction partner that will work closely with local communities, Traditional Owners and landholders while driving value for money for Victorian energy users.
This project is expected to create an average of 600 jobs a year in the construction phase, peaking at 1460 during 2027. Construction is expected to commence in late 2027 and the infrastructure will begin operating in 2030.
The transmission to support offshore wind is subject to an Environmental Effects Statement process, which is now underway and involves a thorough investigation of the potential environmental impacts of the project, including social, agricultural and economic aspects.
Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, said, “We are getting on with the job of developing Australia’s first offshore wind industry which will deliver affordable and reliable power to Victorian homes and businesses.
“Industry has a crucial role to play in the energy transition and we are looking for a transmission partner that shares our commitment to deliver the best outcomes for local communities in Gippsland.”
Companies who wish place an expression of interest or seeking further information should visit tenders.vic.gov.au.