The Australian government has granted feasibility licences to two major offshore wind projects, marking a significant step in the country's transition to renewable energy. Novocastrian Wind Pty Ltd has been awarded a licence for its planned 2GW offshore wind farm in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Hunter, New South Wales. The project is a partnership between Equinor and Oceanex Energy.
The government's decision finalizes a preliminary offer made last year, allowing Novocastrian Wind to begin the necessary feasibility assessments for the project. The wind farm is expected to deliver 2GW of renewable electricity, powering more than one million homes. The feasibility phase may last up to seven years and will involve consultations with local communities, First Nations groups, the fishing industry, and other stakeholders.
Environmental approvals and a comprehensive project management plan are also required as part of the licensing process. Additionally, Novocastrian Wind will be required to work with local industries and workers to maximize the economic benefits of the project for the Hunter region. This includes ensuring the use of local supply chains in the development of the wind farm.
“The project will be located a minimum of 22 kilometers off the coast of the Hunter and has the potential to create hundreds of jobs,” said a spokesperson for Novocastrian Wind. “We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the development of this project benefits local communities and supports the transition to a cleaner energy future.”
Along with Novocastrian Wind's offshore wind farm, the Australian government has also granted a feasibility licence for the 1.2GW Spinifex offshore wind project in the Southern Ocean zone. This project, developed by Alinta Energy and Parkwind, is supported by JERA Nex.
In Newcastle, government member Sharon Claydon expressed strong support for the local offshore wind industry, stating, “This is an important next step in Australia's offshore wind industry, and it's happening right here in Newcastle. Our world-class infrastructure, skilled workforce, and deepwater port make our region poised to lead the country's emerging offshore wind industry.”
In other developments, the Star of the South project in the Gippsland zone has made further progress by partnering with BlueScope to explore using locally-made steel for offshore wind turbine foundations. Blue Mackerel North Pty Ltd, which holds the Gippsland licence, is also moving forward with its own project feasibility assessments.
