Speaking on a panel dedicated to discussing what offshore wind projects may mean for businesses in the state, Ørsted’s Lead Supply Chain Development Manager Marc Adams highlighted the importance of building a strong and coordinated supply chain from the outset.
“We’re collaborating to build an industry, not just a project,” he said. “Offshore wind in Australia only works if developers, government, and local businesses grow together.”
Marc noted the value of Tasmania’s supportive policy environment and the clarity it provides for suppliers preparing for future projects
“It’s fantastic to see government creating robust frameworks for the supply chain. That’s what gives businesses the confidence to invest and take up the diverse opportunities offshore wind will bring."
Marc also emphasised the long-term economic value offshore wind projects create through their operations and maintenance stages, drawing on Ørsted’s global operations as an example.
“At our operations and maintenance hub in Grimsby (in the UK), 75% of the 600 people directly employed live within an hour of the base. We need local people and local companies close to the project to keep it running.”
With skills shortages anticipated across Australia’s emerging offshore wind sector, he said early planning will be key.
“Partnering with local education providers and supporting small businesses to build regional capability will be critical. Our focus is on bringing our global experience and applying it locally.”
Opening the event, Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan MLC launched the newly published
Future Industries Renewable Energy Services Hub — Tasmania’s Supply Chain Opportunities aimed at connecting local businesses to opportunities in the renewable energy industry.
Minister Duigan reaffirmed the state’s goal of reaching 200% renewables by 2040, with the upcoming Marinus Link project key to unlocking this goal.
The Renewable Energy Services Hub (RESH) Supply Chain B2B event was organised by the Tasmania’s Department of State Growth’s Renewables, Climate and Future Industries Tasmania team and ICN Tasmania.
