Engineering and environmental consultancy GHD has been appointed to manage the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and approvals process for the proposed 1 gigawatt (GW) Blue Mackerel offshore wind farm off the coast of Gippsland, Victoria, the company said on Tuesday.
The project is being developed by Parkwind, part of JERA Nex, the renewable energy arm of Japanese utility JERA. Blue Mackerel is located in Australia’s first designated offshore wind zone and aims to begin delivering power by 2032-2033.
Once operational, the wind farm is expected to supply clean electricity to more than 500,000 homes in Victoria.
GHD highlighted its expertise in local community engagement, environmental management, and international offshore wind project delivery. The firm has an established presence in Gippsland and has collaborated with the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) on natural resource management, cultural heritage protection, and Aboriginal business development.
David Chubb, project director at GHD, said: “We are excited to work alongside the Blue Mackerel team to support delivery of a project of such critical importance for Australia’s clean energy future.”
“Our deep relationship with GLaWAC underscores our commitment to building community trust and delivering inclusive outcomes,” he added. “We welcome the opportunity to expand our work with GLaWAC, from land to the sea and sky.”
Kim Downs, environmental planning and approvals manager at Parkwind, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with GHD, a partner that embodies deep local knowledge, marine expertise, and a history of meaningful engagement with regional communities and First Nations Peoples.”
“With GHD’s support, Blue Mackerel is well-positioned to leave a positive and lasting environmental and social legacy,” Downs added.
The Blue Mackerel project represents a key development in Australia’s expanding offshore wind sector as the country seeks to increase renewable energy capacity.
