The Australian government has granted Ocean Winds a feasibility license for a 150-square kilometre area off the coast of Gippsland, in Victoria, during the country’s first offshore wind tender.
Ocean Winds is developing a 1.3GW bottom-fixed offshore wind project.
The scheme will help Victoria reach a target of 95% of renewable energy by 2035 with at least 2GW of offshore wind generation capacity by 2032, 4GW by 2035 and 9GW by 2040.
Ocean Winds was granted the licence through its bidding company High Sea Wind.
The High Sea Wind project will help unlock opportunities for national industries supporting their development and construction, particularly in regional areas.
Ocean Winds chief executive Bautista Rodriguez said: “We are delighted to receive this new project as a sign of trust from the Australian government towards Ocean Winds’ capabilities to successfully deliver clean offshore wind energy.
“We have a proven track record of turning offshore wind into a reality in new markets; mainly thanks to our focus on developing local supply chains, maintaining technical, environmental, and social best practices.”
Ocean Winds chief business development officer Rafael Munilla added: “Entering a new market and growing our secured portfolio reinforces an already strong 2024 with key accomplishments marked by the ongoing construction of 2GW of offshore wind projects around the globe, and safe operation of another 1.5GW.
“We are looking forward to bringing this experience to Australia, working hand in hand with all stakeholders, with a special focus and attention to First Nations, other sea users and local communities impacted by the project.”