Global offshore wind developer Ocean Winds has formalised a partnership with the University of Melbourne to exchange insights between the university’s experts and Ocean Winds’ specialists.
The purpose of this collaboration is to advance offshore wind energy through pioneering research and innovation, with a particular emphasis on minimising environmental and measurement constraints.
Related article: Unis launch Australian Centre for Offshore Wind Energy
By conducting environmental studies, such as monitoring pathways and developing predictive tools to optimise outcomes, the partnership aims to support Australia’s commitment to both energy transition and biodiversity preservation, as well as Ocean Winds’ goal of advancing offshore wind projects in the country.
Key areas of focus include marine science, climate impacts, transmission, environmental considerations and technological advancements relevant to offshore wind in Australia, aligned with the key priorities such as developing enhanced environmental assessment methodologies, monitoring strategies and predictive tools to ensure optimal outcomes for both energy transition and wildlife conservation.
This agreement is a critical step toward the development of High Sea Wind—Ocean Winds’ offshore wind project off the coast of Gippsland. Ocean Winds holds a feasibility license for this project, which will provide an installed capacity of 1.28GW—enough to power 1 million Victorian households annually.
To support the emerging offshore wind industry in Australia, the University of Melbourne has partnered with several universities to establish the Australian Centre for Offshore Wind Energy (ACOWE).
Related article: AEMC report examines barriers to offshore wind in Australia
Ocean Winds chief business development officer Rafael Munilla said, “We are delighted to take steps in shaping the Australian offshore wind industry, hand-in-hand with one of the key stakeholders in the renewables energy research field: the University of Melbourne.
“Ocean Winds has a strong track record in aligning societal and environmental progress with our offshore wind projects. Putting this expertise at the service of the Australian market, through our High Sea Wind project in Gippsland, not only represents our commitment to leveraging experience and unlocking local opportunities, but it also makes sure that all actors are taking an active part in making these opportunities sustainable and locally focused.”
