Abstract
Gippsland is one of six Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) in Victoria and has been identified as a nationally significant location for offshore wind development following the declaration of Australia’s first offshore wind zone in 2022.
A Renewable Energy Readiness Study was undertaken by South Gippsland Shire Council, Latrobe City Council, and Regional Development Australia to understand and strategically plan for long-term renewable energy investment, with a focus on optimising economic benefits and mitigating potential impacts. The study provides an economic and land use evidence base and action plan to guide readiness over the next 10–20 years.
The renewable energy pipeline in Gippsland includes offshore wind, onshore wind, solar, battery storage, and hydrogen projects, with offshore wind expected to generate a significant share of Victoria’s future energy needs. State policy targets include at least 2 GW by 2032, increasing to 9 GW by 2040.
The study identifies four key readiness themes: business supply chain, jobs and skills, housing and accommodation, and infrastructure (ports, roads, and urban systems). Across these themes, there is a need to facilitate project delivery, maximise local economic participation, and address constraints such as labour shortages, limited housing supply, industrial land availability, and infrastructure capacity.
The findings highlight that while Gippsland has strong existing industry capabilities and natural advantages, coordinated planning, investment in enabling infrastructure, workforce development, and housing supply will be critical to ensuring the region can support large-scale renewable energy deployment and capture long-term economic benefits.