Offshore Wind in Australia Primes for Take-off

• Australia’s wind resource among the world’s best

• Offshore wind energy could be a driver of a new Australian economy

Singapore-based Vena Energy has unveiled plans for the 2,000 MW Blue Marlin Offshore Wind Project off the Victorian Coast in the Gippsland Basin.

The project is an important part of Vena Energy’s offshore wind portfolio in the Asia-Pacific region and is expected to be developed over several stages, with construction commencing in 2028.

Recent changes in regulation and market landscape in Australia has highlighted the importance of offshore wind as a large-scale renewable energy source that has the potential to deliver improved security of supply and greater diversity in the energy mix.

Asian energy demand

With its wind resource among the world’s best, Australia has the potential to become an Asia Pacific offshore wind powerhouse.

Industry experts believe with an established offshore wind industry the country would be capable of not only meeting its own domestic clean energy demands, but also delivering energy to its energy hungry Asian neighbours.

The Blue Marlin Offshore Wind Project was first identified as an ideal site for offshore wind development by Vena Energy in 2017. With a setting over 23 km off the coast the project location will minimise visual impact and take advantage of stronger offshore winds.

Owen Sela, Head of Vena Energy in Australia, said the development of the Blue Marlin project will make significant contributions to the economy throughout its lifespan, generating increased business and employment opportunities.