May 5, 2022
Alinta Energy is exploring the potential for an offshore wind farm to supply the Portland Aluminium Smelter and east coast electricity grid. It’s still in the early stages but Alinta Energy have provided us with a project update to share with Victorian recfishers.
Portland Bay has been chosen as an investigation site because exisiting data shows that the region has an excellent wind resource to power offshore wind turbines. The investigation area in Bass Strait is approximately 10km from the Portland shoreline and covers 500km2. Investigation at the site includes measuring wind and confirming suitability at the site.
According to Alinta Energy, the site would be among Australia’s first smelters to be powered by up to 100 per cent renewables.
At offshore wind farms around the world, often recreational fishing can occur alongside an operational offshore wind farm and the structures often act as artificial reefs.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Up to $4 billion of investment would create one of Australia’s first aluminium smelters to be powered by up to 100 per cent renewables. The project would generate thousands of jobs and be a significant step towards decarbonising Victoria’s grid, as the smelter currently uses around 10 per cent of the state’s electricity.
- Around 1000 MW (1 GW)
- 500km2 investigation area identified
- Approximately 10km from the Portland shoreline
- Grid connection via smelter
INDICATIVE TIMELINE
2022 – 2025 | Environmental investigations and approvals
2025 – 2027 | Construction and commissioning
2027 – 2057 | Operations
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
It’s early in the process but Alinta Energy are starting to engage the community throughout the first half of 2022. They know the area has social, cultural, environmental and commercial uses and values that need to be thoroughly investigated and discussed.
If you want to get involved, or know more about their early investigations, please contact the Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm team on 1800 008 335 or [email protected] or visit their website below.
ALINTA ENERGY
Alinta Energy owns and operates power stations and electrical and gas transmission assets across Australia and New Zealand.
PORTLAND ALUMINIUM SMELTER
The Portland Aluminium Smelter has been operating since 1986 and is one of the four remaining aluminium smelters in Australia. It produces 19% of Australia’s total aluminium and is among Victoria’s top exporters.
The smelter is the largest consumer of electricity in Victoria representing approximately 10% of the state load. It also plays an important role in protecting the grid from unexpected interruptions with its ability to rapidly shed load when the power grid is under duress.
