Dutch geological data specialist Fugro has been awarded a contract to conduct offshore soil investigations for the proposed Blue Mackerel offshore wind farm in Australia.
This project, set to be one of Australia’s first offshore wind energy ventures, is located off the coast of Brataualung and Tatungalung country in Gippsland, Victoria.
The Blue Mackerel project, developed by Parkwind, a subsidiary of JERA Nex, aims to play a crucial role in Australia’s transition to clean energy.
With a projected capacity of 1 GW by 2032, the wind farm is expected to generate enough renewable energy to power over 500,000 Victorian homes, contributing significantly to Australia’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
Fugro’s geotechnical investigations will involve deploying their specialist vessel, the Fugro Mariner, to collect seabed soil samples.
These samples will be analysed at Fugro’s laboratory to assist Parkwind in optimising the wind farm’s structural integrity and mitigating construction risks.
Anil Chanana, Country Head for Parkwind Australia, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating: “We are excited to get to the next stage of site characterisation on our Blue Mackerel flagship project in Australia.
“This is a strategic project for Parkwind in Australia, and we would play a crucial role in helping Victoria achieve its legislated 9 GW of offshore wind capacity target in time.”
Shalu Shajahan, Regional Director of Marine Site Characterisation Asia Pacific at Fugro, emphasised the company’s commitment to the project’s success, stating: “We are confident that our advanced geotechnical expertise will deliver high-quality Geo-data that will be integral to the success of this project, and our commitment to delivering sustainable energy solutions and the further development of Australia’s emerging offshore wind energy.”
This contract marks Fugro’s second geotechnical site investigation for an Australian offshore wind project, following their successful completion of work on the Star of the South offshore wind project.
The Blue Mackerel project is set to consist of 60 offshore wind turbines and is anticipated to begin commercial operations in 2032 with a lifespan of 30 years.
As Australia continues to expand its renewable energy sector, projects like Blue Mackerel are poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s clean energy future and its efforts to combat climate change.
