An energy link capable of supplying power for around 1.5 million homes has been granted Federal Government environmental approval.
Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt said the Marinus Link, a 1500MW undersea cable linking Tasmania and Victoria, was a transformative, nation-building project unlocking clean and reliable energy and creating thousands of jobs.
“The Marinus Link project will construct, operate and decommission a 1500 MW subsea and underground electricity and fibre optics interconnector and related infrastructure between Tasmania and Victoria.” Minister Watt said.
He said the project would be delivered in two 750MW stages, with this approval covering both. The first stage is expected to be completed by 2030.
Minister Watt said the full project was expected to create up to 3300 direct and indirect jobs across Tasmania and Victoria during its development and construction phase.
“By unlocking Tasmania’s renewable energy resources, this project will help power homes and businesses across the eastern seaboard.
“The 750MW capacity of Marinus Link Stage 1 alone is roughly equal to the power supply for 750,000 Australian homes.”
Minister Watt said the project would enable the flow of electricity in both directions, providing energy security benefits for both Tasmanian and Victorian homes.
He said the Marinus Link would also enhance internet connectivity by increasing fibre optic capacity between Tasmania and Victoria.
“By unlocking Tasmania’s world-class renewable energy resources, this project will help power homes and businesses across the eastern seaboard,” Minister Watt said.
“It will also strengthen energy security for Tasmania and Victoria by providing National Electricity Market (NEM) customers with greater access to a diverse and abundant supply of renewable energy and storage capacity.”
