Australia Awards Six Feasibility Licences for Major Offshore Wind Projects in Gippsland

Victoria, Australia — In a significant step towards boosting renewable energy, Australia has issued the first six feasibility licences for offshore wind projects off the coast of Gippsland, Victoria. The initiative marks a pivotal moment in the country’s transition to cleaner energy sources, potentially generating up to 25 gigawatts (GW) of electricity if all 12 proposed projects are approved and become operational.

About Gippsland

Located in southeastern Victoria, Gippsland is a region known for its natural beauty and significant contribution to Australia’s energy sector. Historically reliant on coal-fired power, the region is now at the forefront of Australia’s renewable energy transition. The offshore wind projects are situated in the Bass Strait, an area known for its strong and consistent wind patterns, making it an ideal location for wind energy generation.

Global Consortiums Drive Offshore Wind Projects

The current six licences, with an additional six pending approval, aim to transform the Gippsland wind precinct into a major renewable energy hub. This transformation is expected to create approximately 15,000 construction jobs and 7,500 permanent roles, significantly benefiting the local economy and supporting Australia’s renewable energy targets.

The awarded projects feature a mix of Australian and international developers, demonstrating strong global interest in Australia’s renewable energy sector.

1.Star of the South Wind Farm

The Southerly Ten consortium, comprising Denmark’s Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, Australian superannuation fund Cbus, and co-founders Andy Evans, Terry Kallis, and Peter Sgardelis, is behind the 2.2 GW Star of the South project.

2. Kut-Wut Brataualung

Southerly Ten is also developing the 2.2 GW Kut-Wut Brataualung project.

3. High Sea Wind

Ocean Winds, a 50/50 joint venture between Spain’s EDP Renewables and Engie, proposes a 1.28 GW project.

4. Gippsland Skies

A consortium including AGL, Mainstream Renewable Power, Reventus Power, and Direct Infrastructure is developing the 2.5 GW Gippsland Skies project, anticipated to be among the first offshore wind projects to achieve commercial operation in Australia.

5. Ørsted Offshore Australia 1 (Gippsland 01)

Danish wind energy giant Ørsted has secured a licence for its 2.8 GW Gippsland 1 project. Ørsted also has an adjacent 2 GW project pending feasibility approval, with the potential to produce a combined 4.8 GW of renewable energy.

6. Blue Mackerel North

The Parkwind/JERA Nex consortium is developing the Blue Mackerel North project.

Future Prospects and Pending Licences

The Australian Government plans to grant another six feasibility licences, pending consultations with First Nations communities.

Projects Under Consideration

• Iberdrola Australia OW 2 Pty Ltd (Aurora Green)
• Greater Gippsland 2 OWP Project Pty Ltd, with BlueFloat Energy (Gippsland Dawn)
• Navigator North Project Pty Ltd
• Ørsted Offshore Australia 1 Pty Ltd (Gippsland 02)
• Kent Offshore Wind Pty Ltd
• Great Eastern Offshore Wind Farm Project Co.

Final Word

The approval of these six feasibility licences for offshore wind projects in Gippsland represents a pivotal moment for Australia’s renewable energy future, positioning Gippsland to become a major renewable energy hub. However, this transition is not without controversy. The shift from traditional coal-based energy production to offshore wind has raised concerns among some local communities and stakeholders, particularly regarding the potential impact on marine ecosystems, local fisheries, and the visual landscape.

Moreover, the involvement of international consortiums has sparked debates about the extent to which local communities will benefit from these developments versus global investors.

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