The University of Melbourne has launched the Australian Centre for Offshore Wind Energy (ACOWE) to address the key challenges faced by offshore wind farms in Australia.
Partnering with university and key offshore wind stakeholders, ACOWE will serve as the gateway to access multidisciplinary Australian research capabilities.
As a newcomer to Australia’s renewable energy portfolio, offshore wind faces several significant challenges including a complex regulatory environment, social acceptance, workforce shortage, environmental management, supply chain gaps, and the need for site-specific engineering. These challenges, if not addressed promptly, could become roadblocks to progress.
ACOWE director and The University of Melbourne associate professor Shiaohuey Chow said the Centre would collaborate with stakeholders to advance research, teaching and training to support the growing offshore wind energy sector.
“ACOWE’s collaborative approach is essential to unlocking Australia’s renewable energy portfolio because no single organisation can deliver the cross-functional support needed by governments, communities and industry,” a/prof Chow said.
The initiative aims to develop the labour force by offering training and education in the energy sector, equipping the future workforce with the necessary skills for building and maintaining offshore and onshore infrastructure.
The centre involves collaboration between the University of Melbourne, Deakin University, Federation University, the University of Newcastle, The University of Western Australia and the University of Wollongong.
University of Melbourne deputy vice-chancellor (research) Professor Mark Cassidy said, “The university is thrilled to contribute to Australia’s net zero goals through this initiative.
“By uniting leading experts from various universities, we can tackle the complex challenges of offshore wind energy and ensure our research drives tangible impacts in industry and policy.”
