Monash University and Corio Generation collaborate to drive the growth of offshore wind energy in Australia

16 May 2024 — Community & Environment | Project Team |
Penny Pickett, Head of Australia at Corio Generation, and Professor Doron Ben-Meir, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Enterprise and Engagement) and Senior Vice-President at Monash University

Corio Generation and Monash University have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at supporting our Great Eastern Offshore Wind project and propelling Australia’s renewable energy sector forward.

A key focus of the MoU is to collaborate on academic and research activities which will be essential to ensure there is adequate data to inform and benefit the emerging offshore wind sector. The MoU outlines a range of initiatives including knowledge sharing, curriculum development, work experience and integrated learning for students to address specific skill gaps in the renewable energy industry.

Reflecting on the MoU milestone at the official signing event on Thursday 16 May 2024, Corio’s Head of Australia, Penny Pickett, said “building industry capability will be fundamental for the success of the offshore wind sector in Australia. At Corio, we are very much committed to working with our education partners, including Monash University, to unlock potential, accelerate momentum and ensure the industry delivers long-term career opportunities for students.”

“Monash University’s arrangement with Corio underscores our commitment to industry capability building in service of climate change solutions,” said Professor Doron Ben-Meir, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Enterprise and Engagement) and Senior Vice-President. “Through our work together, we will aim to drive the growth of the offshore wind sector and further establish emerging pathways to foster sustainable development and economic prosperity in Australia.”

Corio Generation is developing the Great Eastern Offshore Wind project in the Gippsland offshore wind zone.  It is projected to generate up to 2.5 GW of electricity and help to accelerate the offshore wind sector in Australia while supporting state and national efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

On 1 May 2024, the Hon. Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, announced the government’s preliminary intention to grant a feasibility licence to the Great Eastern Offshore Wind project, subject to Traditional Owner consultation. This project is one of twelve potential projects that have been granted a feasibility licence or there is a preliminary intention to offer by the government.

Through this partnership, Monash University – including the Monash Energy Institute and Faculties of Science, Engineering and IT – will support Corio as we commence the detailed assessment work required to determine feasibility.

Representatives from Corio Generation and Monash University