OMNI Features｜Victoria Gov't Adopts Plan for Renewable Energy Zones

The Victorian government has released the final 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan, which establishes 6 renewable energy zones (REZs) and a shoreline REZ in Gippsland to support offshore wind connections. The plan also outlines major transmission upgrades needed between 2025 and 2040, including 4 new projects and reconstructions of existing infrastructure.

A six-week consultation has opened, inviting feedback from landholders, local communities, and Traditional Owners. The designated REZs cover the South West, Central Highlands, Central North, Gippsland, North West, and West—6 areas identified as most suitable for new wind and solar developments.

The Gippsland Shoreline REZ will be dedicated to offshore wind connections, requiring developers to install export cables and related infrastructure in designated corridors. Located near Woodside and Giffard, the zone lies within Gunaikurnai Country and the Wellington Shire. Further upgrades in the Portland region are planned for the 2030s to accommodate Southern Ocean wind projects.

Victoria has set offshore wind targets of 2 GW by 2032, 4 GW by 2035, and 9 GW by 2040. Recent federal feasibility licences for offshore wind in Gippsland and the Southern Ocean mark a step toward these goals. VicGrid will oversee the shared transmission network to ensure reliable integration of future renewable projects.

Reference: offshoreWIND.biz