A map showing the proposed renewable energy zone off the Illawarra coast. Photo: DCCEEW.
Six community information sessions on the proposed Illawarra offshore wind development zone will start on Monday 18 September.
The drop-in sessions are part of the public consultation on the proposed zone, which extends from Wombarra to Kiama and covers an area of 1461 square kilometres.
During a visit to the Illawarra in mid-August, Federal Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the region was identified for its strong offshore wind resource, major port infrastructure and role as an industrial and manufacturing hub.
“Offshore wind is energy rich and jobs rich but despite having some of the best wind resources in the world, Australia doesn’t currently have any offshore wind,” he said.
“This presents a huge economic opportunity for the regions that help power Australia – like the Illawarra, to continue to power our nation for generations to come.”
The proposed development would have the potential to generate up to 4.2 GW, enough to power up to 3.4 million homes.
Staff from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water will be on hand at the drop-in sessions to answer the community’s questions.
The community is invited to drop in any time during the following sessions:
Monday 18 September, 4 – 7 pm, Bulli Senior Citizens Centre, 8 Hospital Road, Bulli
Tuesday 19 September, 10 am – noon, Port Kembla Senior Citizens Centre, cnr Allan Street and Wentworth Lane, Port Kembla
Tuesday 19 September, 4 – 7 pm, Wollongong Art Gallery, 46 Burelli Street, Wollongong
Wednesday 20 September, 10 am – noon, Shellharbour Surf Lifesaving Club, 115 Junction Road, Shellharbour
Wednesday 20 September, 4 – 7 pm, Kiama Leagues Club, 110 Terralong Street, Kiama
Thursday 21 September, 10 am – noon, Gerringong Town Hall, 106 Fern Street, Gerringong
Public consultation is open until 16 October, and feedback can be given through the department’s website, which also includes information about location, visual amenity, environmental impacts, and how a wind farm zone would impact shipping and fishing.
The website also features a list of frequently asked questions which address many issues which have been raised in the community.
Loading ...
