VicGrid has announced a major milestone in delivering the transmission infrastructure that will connect Gippsland’s offshore wind energy to Victoria’s electricity grid — with three industry consortia selected to move forward in the next stage of the project.
The announcement marks progress toward connecting the first 2 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind generation to the grid, with transmission lines planned to run from near Giffard to the Loy Yang Power Station switchyard in the Latrobe Valley.
The transmission line will use 500 kilovolt (kV) double-circuit overhead technology — a critical step in establishing the new offshore wind industry off Victoria’s coast.
VicGrid, the Victorian Government body responsible for planning and delivering renewable energy zones and transmission infrastructure, has been working with landholders and communities across Gippsland, including those around Lakes Entrance, to shape the project and ensure local voices are heard.
Three consortia have been shortlisted to tender for the contract to design, deliver, finance and operate the transmission network:
– Gippsland Coast Connect – led by Iberdrola Australia Enterprises, with Capella Capital and John Holland.
– Genesis Partnerships – led by AusNet Transmission Group and Pacific Partnerships, alongside CPB Contractors and UGL.
– Acciona – led by Acciona as the Transmission Network Service Provider, with Acciona Concessiones, Acciona Construction and Genus Infrastructure.
VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker said the project had attracted strong interest from major international energy companies.
“Victoria is attracting investment and commitment from top global energy companies as we work to deliver the infrastructure needed to support Australia’s first offshore wind industry,” he said.
“The development of this infrastructure will not only enable a clean and reliable new energy source — it will help create a new industry that delivers jobs and benefits for the Gippsland community.”
Mr Parker said the next stage of the competitive tender process would require bidders to show how they plan to work with landholders, support local communities, and engage early and openly with Traditional Owners and regional stakeholders.
“VicGrid is committed to meaningful engagement with local landholders and communities and to making sure they see real benefits, so we are looking for a delivery partner that shares that commitment,” he said.
An Environment Effects Statement process is currently underway for the offshore wind transmission project, while engagement with landholders continues to help refine the project’s study area.
A development partner is expected to be appointed in 2026, with early works to begin shortly after.
