An agreement between BlueFloat Energy, Energy Estate and Elemental Group (the consortium), Beach Energy New Zealand (Beach) and other offshore wind developers is a step forward to developing the offshore wind industry in New Zealand.
Beach have agreed to the installation of a Doppler Light Detection and Ranging system (LiDAR) on the Beach operated Kupe platform, offshore South Taranaki. The LiDAR measures a number of key data points that are critical for developers in planning their projects such as wind speed, direction and consistency. Beach has agreed to share this data with multiple offshore wind developers, reducing the need for duplication, and bringing a new collaborative dimension to this nascent energy sector.
The consortium has spent the last two years studying the feasibility of offshore wind and engaging with key stakeholders and is confident that Aotearoa offers great potential for offshore wind energy. Subject to the regulatory framework being in place and obtaining all necessary approvals, the first turbines are expected in the water before the end of the decade.
