Offshore wind developer Corio Generation is on track to complete environmental survey assessments for one of the first Australian offshore wind projects, Great Eastern Offshore Wind off the coast of Gippsland.
“We are well advanced in our program, having completed the first nine months of surveys of a 24-month environmental baseline program,” said Penny Pickett, Head of Australia, Corio Generation.
“We have taken a locals-first approach in the delivery of these surveys, with all boat-based surveys utilising local Gippsland vessels.”
“We have developed strong partnerships with Deakin University, Monash University and other environmental scientists, including RPS, APEM, Jasco, Biosis and Fathom Pacific.”
These extensive surveys and detailed investigations are capturing data which will allow researchers to monitor the natural marine environment, particularly marine mammals, seabirds, fish and other marine life living and migrating around the project site in the Bass Strait.
The 24-month aerial, boat and acoustic monitoring surveys are designed to capture the full spectrum of environmental conditions and marine life in the Bass Strait and will help inform the design and construction of the project.
Corio Generation has also reached significant milestones in submitting project referrals to inform the State Environment Effects Statement (EES) and Commonwealth Environment Impact Statement (EIS) approval process for the emerging offshore wind industry.
The Great Eastern Offshore Wind project will generate 2.5 GW of electricity for Australia’s energy grid if fully realised. Looking to harness Victoria’s world-class wind resources, the project will play a key role in providing the state with renewable energy and will help pave the way for Australia’s energy transition.
