Asia-Pacific renewable energy company Vena Energy has released plans for its 2000-megawatt Blue Marlin offshore wind project off the Victorian Coast in the Gippsland Basin.
The project, which is to be developed across several stages, is an important part of Vena Energy’s offshore wind portfolio in the Asia-Pacific region, with construction set to begin in 2028.
Owen Sela, Head of Vena Energy in Australia, said Vena Energy first identified the proposed region for Blue Marlin as an ideal site for offshore wind development in 2017.
The Blue Marlin Offshore Wind Project will be located more than 23 kilometres off the coast, minimising visual impact and providing the advantage of strong offshore winds.
Mr Sela also welcomed the leadership demonstrated by state and federal governments to create an environment that could leverage existing infrastructure and skills to establish an internationally-recognised offshore wind industry.
“Recent changes in regulation and market landscape has highlighted the importance of offshore wind as a large-scale renewable energy source that has the potential to deliver improved security of supply, greater diversity in the energy mix, and better outcomes for electricity consumers,” Mr Sela said.
“Climate change presents a real and ever-present threat to the environment, as well as our way of life, and Vena Energy is committed to accelerating the development of innovative renewable energy projects and generation of clean, sustainable energy in Australia.”
Mr Sela said that the development of the Blue Marlin project would make significant contributions to the economy throughout its lifespan, generating increased business and employment opportunities.
Vena Energy supports a local procurement policy, promotes participation from local, regional, and Australian suppliers wherever possible, and is committed to developing the capacity of local businesses and the required skills base to support the offshore wind industry in Victoria.
