Victoria launches offshore wind auction to secure 2 GW for 1.5 million homes
The Victorian government has opened its first offshore wind auction, seeking bids for 2 GW of capacity that could power 1.5 million households.
Victoria’s government has officially opened an offshore wind auction, inviting firms to compete for the first 2 GW of renewable capacity to be added to the state grid. Bidders have until August next year to lodge offers, after which contracts are slated for award in 2028, paving the way for investment, construction and operation phases. The initiative aims to generate enough electricity to serve 1.5 million homes annually and is expected to generate thousands of new jobs.
Two offshore wind zones have been identified: one off the Gippsland coast and another near Warrnambool, supporting the state’s ambition of 2 GW by 2032, rising to 4 GW by 2035 and 9 GW by 2040. Energy Minister Jaclyn Symes said the auction is a major step toward reliable power as coal plants close. Offshore developer Southerly Ten praised the announcement and will review the auction documents before deciding on participation in its 2.2 GW Star of the South project.
Why it matters
The auction could jump-start Australia’s first large-scale offshore wind industry, boosting clean energy and jobs.
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