Bass Offshore Wind Energy project (BOWE), a partnership between local developer Nexsphere and Norwegian global energy company Equinor, has welcomed the announcement by the Commonwealth Minister for Climate Change and Energy, the Hon Chris Bowen MP, and Tasmanian Minister for Energy, the Hon Nick Duigan, that will commence on the creation of an offshore wind zone in the waters off northern Tasmania.

Located off the coast of north-east Tasmania, BOWE is a multi-billion-dollar offshore wind farm that is set to harness the world-class offshore wind resources in the Bass Strait, resulting in the creation of hundreds of local jobs and billions of dollars of flow-on investment in Tasmania.

BOWE CEO Glen Kierse said the announcement, which calls for the start of the Commonwealth Government’s public consultation process for a Northern Tasmanian offshore wind energy zone, is an important next step to ensure there is a full understanding of what the zone can look like.

“Tasmania has significant natural advantages when it comes to energy. Building on the great history and strength of hydro, a new era of offshore wind will see Tasmania’s energy security enhanced and the sustainable growth of existing and new industries. The Ministerial announcement presents a fanastic opportunity for the state,” Mr Kierse said.

“The BOWE offshore wind farm, located around 30km off the coast, will generate up to 1,500 megawatts of renewable energy, helping to power much of the State’s homes and businesses, as well as assisting in meeting Tasmania’s 200 per cent renewables target by 2040.”

“The project team is committed to engaging with governments and local Tasmanian communities and businesses,” Mr Kierse said, “ as we manage the design, licensing, construction, and operation phases of the BOWE project.”

Equinor, an experienced global leader in offshore wind development, recently announced first power on the 3,600 MW Dogger Bank Wind Farm off the North East coast of England. Dogger Bank is officially the world’s largest offshore wind farm, and when fully operational will be capable of powering up to 6 million UK homes each year.

“We are proud of and committed to the BOWE project, and see a great opportunity for Tasmania and the broader Australian economy through the development of offshore wind,” said Benjamin White, Head of Business Development for Equinor Australia.

“With our partners Nexsphere, we commend the Australian and Tasmanian Governments on their support of offshore wind, and look forward to engaging with stakeholders through the development process,” said Mr White.