Advocating for a Responsible Energy Future for the Illawarra
Uniting to protect our environment and community with sustainable energy solutions
What Does Responsible Future Stand For?
Founded in January 2024, we are a non-partisan group of concerned community members dedicated to prioritising and safeguarding the future of our environment, economy and community by ensuring responsible renewable energy policy and infrastructure in the Illawarra.
We acknowledge the need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and reduce CO² emissions and support evidence-based measures that can ensure these benefits. Action that sacrifices the health of our environment, community or economy without delivering these benefits is not responsible.
Our mission is to ensure that these solutions are developed responsibly and with due consideration for all – now and into the future.
The Fight is NOT Over!! Equinor and Oceanex pull out of Illawarra/Southern Sydney Offshore Wind Project
15 October, 2024: The Daily Telegraph broke the news that Equinor & Oceanex had withdrawn from the Illawarra Offshore Wind project. Many people think this means the proposed Floating Offshore Wind Project will not go ahead. This is not the case. We know at least one company is still thinking about this proposal. We will not let this happen!
Background: On June 15, 2024, the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, officially declared a significant area off the Illawarra and southern Sydney coast for offshore renewable energy development. This area covers an expanse of 1,022 km² from 20 km offshore, spanning from Wombarra to Kiama. Homes in Cronulla/Sutherland shire will be approximately 26klms from these proposed turbines. Details of the DCCEEW Illawarra declaration can be viewed here.
This proposal involves the installation of wind turbines, each around 268 metres in height—structures that would stand taller than most city skyscrapers. Due to the ocean depth, floating turbines would be tethered to the ocean floor. The scale of the project, as described by the DCCEEW, points to a significant transformation of the seascape, using experimental, “multiple large scale developments” into the marine environment off the Illawarra and southern Sydney shoreline.
This proposal has the potential to generate 2.9 GW power according to DCEEW. It will require multiple offshore substations, extensive cabling and onshore infrastructure.
Feasibility licence applications closed on 15 August 2024. We are waiting to hear which company has applied.
OceanEx and their partner, Equinor, are still in the game. Their focus remains on the Hunter / Port Stephens offshore wind projects.
Don’t be misled though. This fight is not over!!
What was Initially Proposed for the Illawarra Offshore Wind Development?
The Illawarra coastline is the proposed site for a substantial offshore wind energy initiative. Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, announced plans for a Renewable Energy Zone that, if realised, would stretch 10 kilometres offshore from Wombarra and Wollongong extending to 30 kilometres offshore from Kiama.
This proposition involves the installation of around 300 turbines, each over 260 metres in height—structures that would stand taller than most city skyscrapers. The scale of the project, as delineated by the DCCEEW, points to a significant transformation of the seascape, integrating “multiple large scale developments” into the marine environment of the Illawarra region.
According to the details shared by BlueFloat Energy, an operation of this magnitude would require substantial support infrastructure, including around 6 floating substations for every 300 turbines to manage the generated power. This element of the project underscores the extensive nature of the proposed offshore grid connection that aims to link the ocean-based technology with the onshore energy network.
Latest News and Updates
Senate Inquiry Announced into Offshore Wind Consultation Processes
National Party Visit to Illawarra Creates Political Uncertainty for Offshore Wind Proposals
DCCEEW Illawarra Submission Summary Report
Illawarra Offshore Wind Area Declared: Federal Labor Government Initiates Illawarra Coast Industrialisation
“Will I Be Able to See the Offshore Turbines?”
How to Join Our Cause
Take a stand for Illawarra’s future today. Your involvement is vital to our mission. Whether you choose to Volunteer and lend your skills, Donate to support our initiatives, Sign Up for vital updates, or Become a Member to drive change, each action you take makes a difference.
Engage with us and become part of a community dedicated to a responsible and sustainable future. Click on the options below to start making an impact now.
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