Australia to introduce legislation for more offshore wind farms

Australia's government has proposed a legislation to give way for more offshore wind farms, by setting a framework for building, running, maintaining and decommissioning  10 proposed offshore electricity projects, with a combined capacity of more than 25 gigawatts (GW).

"An offshore electricity industry in Australia will further strengthen our economy, create jobs and opportunities for Australians and enhance the delivery of affordable and reliable power," Energy Minister Angus Taylor said in a statement.

The projects could include wind generation and transmission cables, with environmental and financial safeguards. These projects include the Star of the South wind project off the coast of Victoria, the Marinus Link transmission line from Tasmania to Victoria, and Sun Cable.

"This legislation is a key step to realising Australia's offshore wind potential and unlocking the associated economic benefits, including providing opportunities for the nation's strong resources and maritime sectors," Star of the South Chief Executive Casper Frost Thorhauge said in a statement.