The 2100MW Gippsland Dawn Offshore Wind Project has been granted major project status (MPS) by the Australian Government-one of 16 diverse projects nationwide to receive this recognition and only the second offshore wind project being developed to hold this status.
The decision recognises the national significance of the project to Australia’s development of an offshore renewable energy industry and energy transition, BlueFloat explained.
As a result, a Major Projects Facilitation Agency case manager will work closely with BlueFloat Energy to assist and navigate government approvals processes.
Australian Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic has also informed the Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan, and several federal colleagues of the decision, encouraging their support.
Nick Sankey, BlueFloat Energy’s country manager, said: “This is an exciting development for BlueFloat Energy, recognising the effort we and many others are putting towards making Gippsland Dawn a success and part of Australia’s renewable future.
Carlos Martin, chief executive of BlueFloat Energy, added: “The granting of Major Project Status underscores our commitment to sustainable energy development and highlights our strong track record in developing offshore wind projects globally.
“We are excited to play a leading role in shaping Australia’s renewable energy landscape.”
Darragh White, project director for Gippsland Dawn, said: “As we move forward, we will ensure that our engagement with the community and stakeholders is transparent and meaningful. The success of Gippsland Dawn relies on collaboration and shared benefits for everyone involved.”
Minister Husic has noted that this decision does not imply Australian Government endorsement or a guarantee of Gippsland Dawn’s financial success; however, it acknowledges the project’s economic significance to Australia.
The project still needs to go through federal and state approval processes.
The Gippsland Dawn Offshore Wind Project was granted a feasibility licence earlier this year, and plans are now underway to install wind turbines and offshore substations in Bass Strait, situated between 10 and 33 kilometres from the coast, between Paradise Beach and Ocean Grange.
Construction is expected to begin in 2029 and the project projected to be operational by 2031.
The project is expected tol create 2,000 jobs during construction and up to 300 ongoing jobs during operations and maintenance stages, fostering new and enduring supply chains across the region and nation. The wind project has an operational lifespan of over 30 years.
Gippsland Dawn Offshore Wind Project acknowledges the Gunaikurnai people as the TraditionalCustodians of the area where our project is to be located.
A transmission system of cables and substations will connect the offshore wind farm to the electricity grid. An onshore landing point for the transmission cable will be determined in line with VicGrid’s connection hub area investigations.