Victoria has declared five onshore renewable energy zones and one shoreline zone to increase its share of battery-backed wind and solar energy to 65% by 2030 and 95% by 2035. The final design includes zones in South West, Central Highlands, Gippsland, Western, and North West, with the Central North zone still under consideration. Changes were made to the South West and Central Highlands zones based on environmental concerns and land availability. The Gippsland region will host both onshore and shoreline renewable energy zones, with the latter connecting offshore wind farms to the grid. The government considered feedback but not all requests were implemented. The zones aim to balance community concerns with developer interests, utilize strong wind and solar resources near existing transmission lines, exclude areas of high biodiversity value, facilitate the transition away from coal-fired power stations, and ensure better coordination of renewable energy projects. VicGrid is also working on developing guidelines for the next Victorian Transmission Plan to meet the state's transmission and renewable energy generation needs.
Tag: Gippsland
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Massive six-hour battery project seeks federal green tick for site in Victoria’s main coal hub
Renewable developer Res Australia has announced the Bunyip North battery, a 400 MW, 2,400 MWh project in Gippsland as part of Victoria's clean energy transition. The project, one of 31 batteries competing for network space, has undergone extensive environmental studies to minimize impact on protected species and habitats. Construction is scheduled for mid-2027 with a commissioning date in mid-2029. The chosen site has limited ecological value, and measures are in place to protect water features and wildlife.
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Offshore wind project says it’s “fully prepared” as it heads into full environmental assessment
The Blue Mackerel offshore wind farm project in Gippsland, Victoria has advanced to the next stage of federal environmental assessment, involving the installation of up to 70 wind turbines 10 km off the coast. The project aims to minimize environmental impacts and address community concerns about visual impact, with the developer committed to delivering a scientifically rigorous environmental impact statement. This project is crucial in transitioning the state and national grid off coal, highlighting the importance of renewable energy solutions in combating climate change.