The Australian federal government has approved the establishment of an offshore windfarm zone located 20km off the coast of the Illawarra region, south of Sydney. Announced on June 15, 2024, by Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, this area marks Australia’s fourth declared offshore windfarm zone.

The approved zone spans 1,022 sq km, reduced by a third from the initial proposal, and is expected to generate 2.9GW of power, sufficient for 1.8 million homes. The zone has been adjusted to exclude habitats vital for little penguins and southern right whale migration.

While the project has sparked controversy, with concerns about visual impacts and potential environmental disruptions, adjustments were made based on public consultations. The turbines will now be positioned 20km offshore, instead of the initial 10km.

Protests have been held by both renewable energy opponents and environmental groups. However, proponents, including federal Labor MPs Stephen Jones and Alison Byrnes, emphasize the project’s potential to create thousands of jobs and support Australia’s shift toward renewable energy.

The project is part of a staged regulatory process, which includes feasibility studies, commercial licensing, and environmental assessments before construction can commence. If built, the wind turbines could stand up to 268 meters high, with specific details to be determined by prospective developers.

Key voices in support of the project include Jennifer Rayner from the Climate Council and Ty Christopher, director of the University of Wollongong’s Energy Futures Network, who see the project as a significant step towards a clean energy future for the region. The project is expected to begin construction by 2028 and deliver power by 2030, potentially creating up to 3,000 jobs.