Norwegian energy company Equinor has formed a partnership with Oceanex Energy, which is developing offshore wind projects in Australia and New Zealand
The partnership will further develop Oceanex-originated offshore wind opportunities in the state.
Equinor and Oceanex will bring together local knowledge and experience gained over the last decade by Oceanex’s co-founders Andy Evans and Peter Sgardelis – two of the co-founders of the Star of the South offshore windfarm – with Equinor’s broad energy experience and pioneering role in the development of offshore wind, especially floating foundation technology.
Equinor and Oceanex said they will build upon the strong foundation Oceanex has created in New South Wales since 2020, commencing with the submission of feasibility licence applications for offshore wind acreage in New South Wales once the areas have been declared by the Federal Government.
Oceanex co-founder and chief executive Andy Evans said, “Oceanex is delighted to be working with Equinor to make floating offshore wind a thriving future industry for New South Wales.
“Much like the offshore wind journey in Australia, a lot of hard work has gone into getting us to this stage, and we were delighted that Green Giraffe were there by our side to bring the Equinor partnership to fruition.
“Bringing a global perspective to a new market is critical, and the Green Giraffe team, like Equinor, are world leaders in what they do and have prepared us well for an exciting future.”
The Federal Government of Australia has signalled a strong desire to develop an offshore wind market in Australia with the commencement of the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Act’s licensing regime, commencement of a consultation in the Gippsland area and a further five zones identified, including off the Hunter Valley and Illawara coastlines.
