Denmark's Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) has revealed plans to establish a dedicated platform for offshore wind development in Australia, introducing the Southerly Ten platform alongside the confirmation of feasibility awards for two projects in a recent offshore wind licensing round.
Southerly Ten is set to lead the development and execution of CIP's Australian offshore wind portfolio, including its inaugural projects, the Star of the South and Kut-Wut Brataualung. Charles Rattray, CEO of the Star of the South project, will assume leadership of the new venture.
“We see promising opportunities for Southerly Ten to leverage CIP's extensive global experience and expertise in offshore wind development,” noted Jorn Hammer, partner and head of CIP Australia, highlighting the platform's potential.
The Star of the South and Kut-Wut Brataualung projects secured feasibility study licenses in Australia's first offshore development zone off the coast of Gippsland, Victoria. These awards grant CIP exclusive rights to explore the feasibility of constructing offshore wind parks across two seabed areas, collectively covering 586 sq km and 689 sq km, and boasting a combined power generation capacity of up to 4.4 GW.
CIP's flagship funds will provide the necessary capital for project development and to support the growth of the Southerly Ten platform, reflecting the company's commitment to advancing offshore wind initiatives in Australia.