Offshore wind developer Corio Generation today announced that Penny Pickett has been appointed as its new Head of Australia. Penny will be leading the company’s team in Australia and the development of Corio’s Great Eastern Offshore Wind project off the Gippsland Coast.
Penny brings a wealth of global experience from offshore wind projects in mature markets. With more than 15 years of experience in offshore wind, she has led the development and project approvals for more than 10 GW of offshore wind projects in the UK and Australia, including the two largest offshore wind projects in the world.
“Penny’s appointment highlights Corio’s commitment to Australia’s emerging offshore wind industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s energy transition,” said Yi-Hua Lu, Head of Asia Pacific at Corio Generation. “Penny’s proven leadership and seasoned expertise make her the ideal candidate to drive our initiatives forward.”
Formerly Development Director of the Great Eastern Offshore Wind project, Penny has also held stakeholder roles in the UK, assisting proponents to overcome barriers and mitigate development risks for offshore wind projects in Europe.
“Offshore wind is well-established in countries such as the UK, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to return to Australia and work with industry stakeholders,” said Penny Pickett, Head of Australia, Corio Generation.
“Australia has a natural set of attributes for renewable energy development, including an abundance of wind, that makes it suitable to harness this particular form of clean energy in a cost- effective way.”
“I have a keen interest in assisting communities and proponents in developing offshore wind projects to help drive net-zero targets, and it’s great to have the opportunity to do this in my home country of Australia.”
The Great Eastern Offshore Wind Project is in the early development phase, and if fully realised will generate 2.5 GW of electricity for Australia’s energy grid and 20% of Victorian households.
Looking to harness Victoria’s world-class wind resources, the project will play a key role in providing the state with clean, renewable energy.
