Offshore wind project to connect to Vic grid

Victoria is another step closer to harnessing offshore wind resources, with the preferred transmission route now identified.

The route will connect the first offshore wind project off the Gippsland coast to the state’s electricity grid.

This follows the launch of the offshore wind auction in August — which will deliver the first 2 GW of offshore wind, enough to power around 1.5 million homes.

Offshore wind is expected to drive more than $20 billion of investment into Victoria, with the first auction alone delivering a $3.1 billion boost to Gippsland communities.

“Gippsland has powered Victoria for generations — offshore wind will keep it an energy powerhouse, creating thousands of jobs and attracting billions in investment,” said Minister for Energy and Resources Jaclyn Symes.

The preferred route runs around 60 km between the Loy Yang Power Station switchyard and a proposed new terminal station at Giffard. Around 200 m wide, it will provide the corridor for shared transmission infrastructure.

VicGrid has worked with landholders, communities and stakeholders since 2023 to refine the route, alongside environmental, cultural heritage and technical studies.

It is now meeting directly with landholders within the preferred route. Discussions include indicative tower locations, likely construction activities and the indicative transmission easement.

“Landholders and locals have helped shape the route we have today — we’ll keep working with them as we build an offshore wind industry that delivers jobs, investment and opportunities for Gippsland,” Symes said.

The reference design will be assessed through the Environment Effects Statement (EES), with the community able to view the design and make submissions when it is exhibited in early 2027.

Community sessions will be held throughout October in Willung, Giffard West and Rosedale, as well as online. More information is available on the VicGrid website.

Image credit: iStock.com/armckw