The Star of the South offshore wind project, Australia's most advanced, is facing a potential delay of up to five years, with construction not starting until 2030 and electricity generation not expected until 2032. This delay, while concerning, is not an isolated incident. It's part of a broader trend of setbacks in the offshore wind sector in Victoria, which has been struggling to meet its renewable energy targets. The project's developer, Southerly Ten, has attributed the delay to the need for conservative timeframes to account for potential setbacks, but this doesn't address the underlying issues. The Victorian government's failure to properly anticipate the difficulties in transitioning from coal-fired power is a critical factor. The state's aging coal-fired power stations in the Latrobe Valley are set to close within the next decade, and the lack of new investments and industries in the region is leaving workers and their families in a precarious situation. The Grattan Institute's Tony Wood highlights the importance of aligning the closure of coal with the opening of renewables, and the potential for blackouts if this doesn't happen. The offshore wind sector in Victoria is facing a critical juncture, and the need for clarity and certainty for workers and communities is urgent. The state government must take responsibility for the impact of its decisions on regions like Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley, and ensure that the transition to renewable energy is a just and equitable one.
