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South Australian government opposes proposed offshore wind farm zone
Credit: By Sam Bradbrook | 29 August 2023 | abc.net.au ~~
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The South Australian government says a proposed offshore wind farm zone in the Southern Ocean should stop at the Victorian border and not include waters of the state’s coast.
Primary Industries Minister Clare Scriven and Environment Minister Susan Close on Tuesday said the state government was in favour of the proposed zone starting at Warnambool in Victoria and ending at the SA-Victoria border.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen launched public consultation on the Southern Ocean Wind Farm Zone in July, which would allow for development of wind farms in the area.
Plans for a wind farm off the coast of Port Macdonnell, on the Limestone Coast, have also been lodged by developer BlueFloat Energy.
They have been met with fierce opposition from Port Macdonnell residents, who raised concerns about the impact it could have on the large southern rock lobster fishing industry and the environment.
Ms Scriven said concerns over the fishery and other impacts on the environment were the basis of the state government’s opposition.
“Whilst we are committed to renewable energy, it can only be for projects that are not going to cause harm to local industries and to the environment,” she said.
“The work we’ve done on a state government level has indicated that risks would outlay any potential benefits.
“We’re very strong in our recommendation that if the zone does proceed, it shouldn’t include any of the waters that are adjacent to South Australia’s waters.”
‘Committed’ to consultation
While the proposed zone extends into ocean off the SA coast, it is entirely within Commonwealth waters, giving the state government no official jurisdiction over the area.
The proposed Southern Ocean Wind Farm Zone stretches between Warnambool and Port Macdonnell. (Supplied: Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water)
Mr Bowen will decide the final offshore wind farm zone after considering public consultation responses, with the consultation period ending on Thursday.
A spokesperson for his office said the federal government was committed to genuine community consultation on offshore wind farm zones and reiterated no decision had been made on the final Southern Ocean area.
“Consultations around offshore wind to date have been thorough, and take into consideration all sea users, including co-existence with fisheries and the environment, as well the future energy requirements of this region,” she said.
Chris Bowen in a navy suit and tie in front of the australian flag at a press conference
Chris Bowen will review public consultation submissions.(ABC News: Ed Reading)
“The minister will consider all evidence from community, governments and industry members during consultation for the Southern Ocean offshore wind zone.
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