We support offshore wind
We are in support of the proposed offshore wind area. Hi Neighbour views low carbon energy including wind, solar, hydrogen as key tools in the global energy transformation that will see us make the essential shift away from fossil fuels. As an organisation we seek to responsibly engage with low carbon technology in all the forms that arrive in our region. As a Renewable Energy Zone we hope that these opportunities will be bountiful. We know that no single technology is a silver bullet, without tradeoffs to be considered, planning to be exhaustive and processes to be refined. But to do nothing and commit to business as usual is unconscionable.
Local debate has been forced into unfortunate polarised positions but we've found great value in seeking deeper lessons. We've gone out and talked to local experts to listen and learn. You're very welcome to check out these conversations in videos below. From these conversations we've clarified our position and the caveats and concerns that accompany our support.
These include;
Rigorous and independent environmental assessments
Percentage based local job guarantees
Dynamic First Nations collaboration
Community benefit royalties
Percentage based local procurement of local materials
At Hi Neighbour we like to say we are proud of our past and ready for our future. We are working for a healthy future, where our region can utilise its highly skilled workforce with deep history in heavy industry. It is my hope we can continue to be a region that powers a nation, pours the steel of tomorrow, that exports energy across the seas; but this time using low carbon technology that safeguards our children's future.
Community support for the zone is needed if we are to grab this opportunity with two hands, bring your hopes, your stipulations and support to bear on a project that will breathe new life and hope into this region.
From the coal coast to the clean coast, what a journey that will be!
And now for some local
knowledge
Hi Neighbour spoke to some local experts about their perspective on offshore wind
(and yes Dr Karl is a born and bred local!)
If you’re looking for more info on the local offshore wind proposal the University of Wollongong has some helpful resources
Offshore wind = frequently ask questions
You can view UOW’s Blue Energy Futures Lab’s submission and recommendations