Victoria, Australia, to Launch Offshore Wind Tender in August 2026 for 2 GW Capacity
Victoria’s Energy and Resources Minister announced on January 27 that an offshore wind tender for 2 GW of capacity will open in August 2026. In December 2025, Australia’s Energy Ministers backed the Electricity Services Entry Mechanism (ESEM), facilitating new renewable energy projects, including offshore wind, to help Victoria meet its renewable energy targets. The Victoria State Government is collaborating with the industry and the Commonwealth to finalize the ESEM design and auction process to ensure competitive bidding.
“We’re partnering with developers to ensure strong competition and secure optimal projects for Victoria,” stated Lily D’Ambrosio, Victoria’s Minister for Energy and Resources. “Victoria is set to lead Australia’s first offshore wind industry, pushing for ESEM accommodation of technologies like offshore wind.”
The initial offshore wind tender, planned for September last year, was postponed. According to Minister D’Ambrosio, the delay resulted from multiple factors, including setbacks in feasibility licence approvals, the Port of Hastings’ initial referral rejection, and global uncertainties.
Southerly Ten, developer of the Star of the South offshore wind farm, expressed support for the new tender date, emphasizing offshore wind’s significance to Australia’s energy security and journey to net zero, with 90 percent of coal-fired capacity set to retire by 2035.
“Star of the South alone could deliver 10% of the emissions reduction required to achieve Australia’s 2035 climate target, while generating local jobs and economic benefits. We are ready for the next steps, having submitted Star of the South’s environmental approval applications and acquired land for the project’s shore crossing,” the developer stated.
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Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz