Star of the South, Australia’s first proposed offshore wind project, has launched a study to connect local businesses with future opportunities in Gippsland’s emerging offshore wind sector.
The project is seeking out local businesses that supply goods and services needed for offshore wind projects and opportunities to grow local capabilities.
Star of the South has identified more than 100 opportunities for Gippsland businesses to supply the offshore wind sector including welding, excavation, electrical, vessel, and helicopter services, fencing and safety equipment.
The directory will also include local steel, manufacturing, Traditional Owner, and social and inclusive procurement opportunities.
The study is co-funded through the Victorian Government’s Energy Innovation Fund, aimed at creating a competitive offshore wind sector in Victoria.
The Australian Government recently nominated the Bass Strait off Gippsland, Victoria, as the first offshore wind area to be formally assessed under its new Offshore Electricity Infrastructure framework.
Pending approvals, Star of the South is planning to start construction around the middle of the decade and have its first turbine produce power by 2028.
Onshore and offshore surveys are wrapping up at the project’s location site and if it proceeds to construction, the wind farm would be able to power up to 1.2 million Victorian homes with clean energy, meeting up to 20 per cent of the Australian state’s electricity needs.
The Star of the South offshore wind farm is planned to have up to 200 wind turbines and an installed capacity of 2.2 GW.