Dutch geological data specialist Fugro has been awarded the contract for offshore soil investigation services for the proposed Blue Mackerel offshore wind farm in Australia.

The Blue Mackerel project, developed by Parkwind and part of JERA Nex, recently received approval from the Offshore Infrastructure Regulator (OIR) for its feasibility stage management plan. Fugro will conduct offshore geotechnical investigations to support the project.

Using its specialist geotechnical vessel, the Fugro Mariner, the company will collect seabed soil samples for analysis in its laboratory. The survey results will help Parkwind optimize the wind farm’s structural integrity, mitigate construction risks, and ensure compliance with sustainability standards.

The Blue Mackerel wind farm, with a projected capacity of 1 GW by 2032 and 60 offshore wind turbines, aims to generate renewable energy to power over 500,000 Victorian homes. This will contribute significantly to Australia’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Situated off the coast of Brataualung and Tatungalung country in Gippsland, Victoria, the project is essential for Australia’s clean energy transition.

This contract follows Fugro’s successful completion of the geotechnical site investigation for the Star of the South offshore wind project.

Commenting on the collaboration, Anil Chanana, Country Head for Parkwind Australia, stated, “We are excited to proceed with the site characterization of our Blue Mackerel flagship project in Australia. Fugro’s involvement in this geotechnical survey is crucial for Parkwind as we work towards helping Victoria reach its 9 GW offshore wind capacity target.”