Australia’s journey into the realm of offshore wind energy continues to evolve, with Gippsland at the forefront of innovation and resilience. While the announcement that Blue Float Energy has cancelled its 2.1 GW Gippsland Dawn project made headlines, the bigger story is the enduring strength and ambition of Victoria’s offshore wind sector.
Gippsland: Australia’s Offshore Wind Pioneer
Gippsland remains Australia’s first declared offshore wind zone—a region boasting shallow waters ideal for fixed turbines, which are both more cost-effective and simpler to install than floating alternatives. With the Commonwealth approving feasibility licences for projects capable of delivering 23 GW of electricity, the region is poised to more than meet Victoria’s energy needs. It’s also perfectly normal for some projects to exit as the sector matures and competition refines the field.
Milestones and Forward Momentum
The sector’s progress is clear. The Offshore Infrastructure Regulator (OIR) recently approved feasibility management plans for two major projects: JERA Nex bp’s Blue Mackerel project (1 GW) and Iberdrola Australia’s Aurora Green Offshore Wind Project (3 GW). Both developments are anchored in the Gippsland Offshore Wind Zone, marking significant steps forward for renewable energy in the region.
Victoria’s Vision: Investing in a Clean Energy Future
The Victorian Government is unwavering in its commitment, announcing a 2 GW offshore wind capacity auction set to open in September. Selected participants will be revealed in October 2026, and successful projects will benefit from a Contract for Difference (CfD) scheme—providing certainty and encouraging long-term investment.
Victoria’s ambitious goals include:
• 2 GW of offshore wind capacity under development by 2032
• 4 GW by 2035
• 9 GW by 2040
Building a Skilled Workforce for Tomorrow
Recognising the need for a robust pipeline of talent, the Victorian Government has launched tenders for a delivery partner for the new Wind Worker Training Centre. This initiative will ensure Victoria has a highly skilled renewable energy workforce, ready to power the state’s sustainable future.