New offshore wind centre to advance net zero ambitions

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 University of Melbourne Associate Professor Shiaohuey Chow said the Centre will 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,” Professor 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.

Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology Interim Dean Professor Thas Nirmalathas said the Faculty is committed to addressing and solving major societal challenges, including supporting offshore wind energy production and reducing Australia’s carbon emissions.

“We are delighted to see the Australian Centre for Offshore Wind Energy come to fruition,” Professor Nirmalathas said. “The Centre will be pivotal in driving innovation and developing the skilled workforce needed to support Australia’s transition to a sustainable energy future.”

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’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Mark Cassidy, who launched ACOWE, said he was excited by the new venture.

“The University is thrilled to contribute to Australia's net zero goals through this initiative,” Professor Cassidy said. “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."

The Centre will drive development and remove knowledge barriers, making Australia a prime location for offshore wind energy investment. ACOWE will provide evidence-based community engagement, offer government policy insights, and serve as a research hub and workforce development portal for the industry.