Star of the South Completes Feasibility Studies, Scales Down Turbine Plans

November 19, 2024, by Adnan Memija

Following five years of feasibility studies and consultations, the Star of the South offshore wind project in Australia revealed several updates, including the reduction in the proposed number of turbines from 200 to 150.

Star of the South, Australia’s first proposed wind farm, secured a Commonwealth Feasibility Licence in May, which confirmed the project’s location at least ten kilometres off the coast – a further three kilometres offshore than originally planned.

Key project design updates have been shaped by detailed marine environment data collected over three years on whales, birds, fish, and seabed habitats, said Charles Rattray, CEO of Star of the South.

“We’ve collected vast amounts of scientific data and listened to local advice to help develop a project that can contribute to Victoria’s energy security, the environment and local communities,” stated Rattray.

These updates include reducing the initial number of proposed turbines from 200 to 150, reflecting advancements in hardware technology. The units will be positioned to avoid high-profile reefs and to protect habitat.

The gap between the ocean and turbine blades has increased from 25 metres to 35 metres, based on bird flight height data, to provide a safe zone for seabirds to fly and forage.

Star of the South plans to explore “established and cutting-edge technologies” to reduce underwater construction noise to ensure the right measures are in place to protect whales.

A ‘no trench’ construction method is planned to be used where cables come to shore to protect the beach and dunes above, and work is underway to adapt the project’s underground transmission route.

“With Yallourn closing in 2028, there’s a real need to bring new energy into the grid and create ongoing jobs and economic opportunities in Gippsland as soon as possible. We’re here to listen and work together – if you have ideas that can help make Star of the South a better project or if there’s something on your mind, please share it with us, our door is always open,” said Rattray.

Star of the South is led by Southerly Ten, a specialist offshore wind developer for Australia and New Zealand, backed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) and Cbus Super.

If built to its full capacity, the up to 2.2 GW Star of the South offshore wind farm would generate enough electricity for 1.2 million homes, inject around AUD 3 billion into the Gippsland economy, and create up to 200 long-term local jobs across 30 years of operations.