September 26th, 2026Path Takes Shape For Victoria’s Offshore Wind

Victoria is another step closer to harnessing some of the best offshore wind resources in the world, with the preferred transmission route now identified.

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

Offshore wind will deliver more cheap, reliable renewable energy as ageing coal-fired power stations retire – while creating thousands of jobs and keeping Gippsland an energy powerhouse.

The milestone follows the launch of Australia’s first offshore wind auction last month – which will deliver the first 2 gigawatts 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.

The preferred route runs around 60 kilometres between the Loy Yang Power Station switchyard and a proposed new terminal station at Giffard.

Around 200 metres 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.

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

These details will inform the project’s reference design.

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.

Final tower and easement locations will continue to be refined through further technical work and consultation.

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.

Minister for Energy and Resources Jaclyn Symes said:

“Gippsland has powered Victoria for generations – offshore wind will keep it an energy powerhouse, creating thousands of jobs and attracting billions in investment.”

“We’ve launched Australia’s first offshore wind auction and now we’re getting on with the transmission needed to bring that cheap, reliable energy into the grid.”

“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.”