Waikato Offshore Wind project, in New Zealand, is being announced by BlueFloat Energy to develop offshore wind.
A major project
Waikato Offshore Wind project, aims to develop 1.4GW of offshore wind capacity in New Zealand, both fixed and floating. The project represents the supply of approximately 700,000 homes. In addition, the project will be developed in several phases.
The first phase of the project involves the installation of fixed wind turbines 22 kilometers off the Waikato coast. This offshore wind farm will have a capacity of 250MW. It will create 300 jobs in construction, operation and maintenance.
The second phase will be based on floating wind power with a projected capacity of 800 to 1150MW. The consortium formed by BlueFloat Energy, Energy Estate and Elemental Group anticipates the creation of at least 800 jobs during this phase. The consortium expects construction to begin before 2030.
Local development
The construction of this offshore wind farm in New Zealand is part of the development of renewable energies desired by the government. The company anticipates a lifespan of 35 to 40 years for the park, allowing for a supply for several decades. The government is expected to present a regulatory framework for offshore wind in mid-2024 to support the development of this sector.
On the other hand, this offshore wind project will allow a development of local activity in New Zealand. Fiona Carrick, Director of the Waikato Development Agency says:
“The energy sector is a key growth industry in the Waikato. The region is uniquely positioned to become a national leader in renewable energy production.”
In addition, the consortium wants to work with local partners, including the Iwi, the local community.
Offshore wind in the South Auckland-Waikato region will benefit from the proximity of the Huntly power station. Waikato Offshore Wind project will have a Glenbrook substation connection adjacent to NZ Steel operations. As such, the project will supply industry and consumers in the Auckland region.
