Australian regulator looks to Taiwan as offshore wind industry takes shape

As Australia establishes its offshore wind industry, learning from markets with years of operational experience will play an important role in building strong health and safety practices from the outset.

Ørsted and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) recently co-hosted representatives from Australia's Offshore Infrastructure Regulator (OIR) for a technical visit to Taiwan, providing an opportunity to see first-hand how offshore wind projects are safely constructed, operated, and maintained in an established offshore wind market.

Delegates hearing from offshore wind specialists in Ørsted’s Taiwan office.

At Ørsted's operations and maintenance hub in Taichung, delegates met with the company's operations, generation, and health, safety, quality and environment (QHSE) leaders to gain insight into the systems, processes and people behind the day-to-day operation of offshore wind farms.

The visit included a tour of the Taichung hub, a safety walk through the warehouse and logistics facilities, and a visit aboard one of Ørsted's Service Operation Vessels (SOVs), which support technicians working offshore. The broader program across Taiwan also provided delegates with exposure to offshore wind construction, manufacturing, workforce training, and Taiwan's regulatory framework.

Delegates touring Ørsted’s SOV and warehouse and logistics facilities.

Taiwan is home to almost 5 GW of installed offshore wind capacity and around 500 operating turbines, making it one of the world's most established offshore wind markets. The experience gained through its rapid industry growth continues to provide valuable insights for emerging offshore wind markets, including Australia.

By opening its operations to Australian regulators, Ørsted is helping share the practical experience and operational knowledge gained from delivering and operating offshore wind projects around the world. These exchanges play an important role in supporting the safe development of Australia's offshore wind industry.