BY PETER HYSLOP
The Federal Government says securing a feasibility licence for a company to develop a windfarm off the Hunter's coast is a major step forward.
It's been awarded to company Novocastrian Wind, a partnership between Equinor and Oceanex Energy.
It comes despite community opposition to the project which would generate 2 gigawatts of renewable energy and sit about 20 kilometres off the Newcastle Coast. Some locals say the project could harm marine life.
Federal Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon says the project would create hundreds of jobs.
"This is an important next step in Australia's offshore wind industry and it's happening right here in Newcastle," she said.
"And a new offshore wind industry in Newcastle means new jobs in local manufacturing, in construction, maritime, transport and the logistics industries, as well as growing our vocational education and training pathways at TAFE and the University," she said.
Licence Area. Credit: Sharon Claydon MP |