Australia's first offshore wind farm could be built off the coast of Gippsland in Victoria, with the federal government giving the nod of approval to exploration work.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Offshore Energy will be able to undertake resource exploration about eight to 13 km off the Gippsland coast, Energy Minister Angus Taylor said on Friday.
The company is able to assess wind resources and sea bed conditions to determine if the project is feasible.
Mr Taylor says there is more frequent and consistent wind offshore, making it a more stable option than onshore wind.
Meanwhile, small businesses will soon be able to access free advice to reduce their power bills through a $10 million federal government program.
The NSW Business Chamber will run the program nationwide from next month, building on a similar service provided to its members.
The service helped Meals on Wheels save $17,000 a year, allowing the charity to offer 3000 extra meals for those in need.
"The power is the same power coming out of the power point, it's just that they weren't on the best deal available," NSW Business Chamber CEO Stephen Cartwright told AAP.
"All we really need is for small businesses to get help when the opportunity is there, because they really have no idea how much they may be able to save."
The initial program has already helped 2500 small businesses save a collective $5 million from their annual power bills.
The energy efficiency and retail market advice will be available either face-to-face or through digital platforms.
The program will run alongside an online tool giving small businesses the chance to compare their energy spend against other businesses.
Mr Taylor has also asked energy retailers to better assist customers with financial difficulties by updating their hardship policies.
The minister wants energy giants to identify their customers facing hardship as early as possible.
Australian Associated Press
