Environment
Contributing to Victoria's Renewable Energy Goals
When commissioned, the Navigator North project will contribute to the Victorian Government’s targets of:
- 95 per cent renewable energy by 2035,
- 9 GW of offshore wind by 2040, and
- net zero emissions by 2045.
The project is expected to generate renewable energy to power over 10 per cent of Victoria’s future energy needs, or the equivalent of around a million Victorian homes per year.
Environmental Impact Assessment and Supporting Studies
Before the project commences, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be prepared to allow assessment under the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and Victorian legislation, including the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and Marine and Coastal Act 2018.
Further studies to support preparation of an EIA will include comprehensive surveys of:
- Birds
- Marine mammals
- Seafloor habitat
- Fish
- Coastal habitat
- Coastal processes
- Water quality
- Cultural heritage
- Social and economic environment, including existing marine users such as commercial fisheries
Planned Marine Surveys
Early marine surveys, including geophysical and geotechnical investigations, are planned to commence in 2025 and will be subject to an EPBC referral to the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act
Referral for early marine surveys - Public Comment Invited
The Navigator North offshore wind project is in planning for a geophysical and geotechnical survey campaign to map the seafloor and understand more about the geology within our 700km2 licence area in the Bass Strait. It is also proposed to install a temporary lidar buoy to gather data on meteorological and ocean conditions. These surveys will help inform future planning, environmental assessments and engineering design considerations.
These surveys are not proposed to commence any earlier than the 2nd half of 2025 and approvals are required in advance. Our referral under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 can now be viewed on the Commonwealth Government EPBC portal and you have an opportunity to make a submission via the portal:
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) assessment of this referral will inform our subsequent preparation of a Management Plan under the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Act 2021 (e.g – so that any associated conditions are incorporated).
Please do not hesitate to contact us at info@navigatornorth.com.au if you have any queries or would like to arrange a time to further discuss the surveys or our project more broadly. We will continue to keep the community informed regarding planning for these surveys and further consultation opportunities.
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