The Latrobe Valley, once the powerhouse of Victoria's coal-driven energy sector, is now at a crossroads. For over a century, this region has been synonymous with coal-fired power stations, fueling both electricity and local economies. But as these plants near their end, a transformative shift is underway—one that could redefine the valley's future. And this is where it gets intriguing: businesses like BMC, a Morwell-based manufacturing company, are pivoting from coal to wind, eyeing the burgeoning offshore wind industry off the Gippsland coast.
Traditionally, BMC has serviced coal plants and maintained powerlines, but now it’s setting its sights on fabricating equipment for wind energy projects. "We know the skill base is here," asserts Emma Baptist, BMC's chief operations manager. This transition isn’t just about survival—it’s about leveraging the region’s industrial legacy to lead the green energy revolution. With the closure of the Hazelwood coal plant in 2017 and others like Loy Yang A and B slated to follow, the timing couldn’t be more critical.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the federal government forecasts offshore wind projects creating thousands of jobs over the next decade, there’s a looming skills shortage that could derail these ambitions. The Australian Energy Council (AEC) warns that without a clear plan to build and retain skilled workers, particularly in engineering and construction, the energy transition could hit serious roadblocks. "The competition for talent is already intense," notes Tom Monaghan, AEC’s senior corporate affairs advisor. "Every country is vying for the same skilled workers."
Gippsland, declared Australia’s first offshore wind zone in 2022, has the potential to generate 25 gigawatts of electricity. The Star of the South project, led by Southerly Ten, is at the forefront, focusing on local sourcing and manufacturing. Charles Rattray, Southerly Ten’s CEO, emphasizes the benefits of reducing reliance on imported components and boosting regional jobs. "If we can manufacture parts within Victoria, it’s a win for the environment and the community," he says.
However, delays in the federal government’s auction process for commercial licenses, now pushed to 2026, have created uncertainty for investors and developers. Meanwhile, BMC’s Baptist highlights another critical aspect: offshore wind farms offer young apprentices a future in Gippsland, eliminating the need to relocate for work. "It’s about keeping that experience and capability in the region," she adds.
And this is the part most people miss: Jobs and Skills Australia estimates that by 2050, Australia will need 2 million workers in building and engineering trades to prepare the energy grid for net zero, including an additional 53,000 to 84,000 electricians. The question remains: Can the Latrobe Valley—and Australia—rise to the challenge?
As the region pivots from coal to wind, it’s not just about replacing one energy source with another. It’s about reimagining an entire economy, retraining a workforce, and securing a sustainable future. But will this transition be smooth, or will it face insurmountable hurdles? What do you think—is the Latrobe Valley’s shift to renewable energy a bold step forward, or is it biting off more than it can chew? Let’s discuss in the comments!
