Siemens and Marathon sign MoU ahead of “next phase of energy transition” for state

Industrial technology company Siemens and renewable energy developer Marathon Group have announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), describing it as coming at a time “when Gippsland goes through a once in a lifetime energy transition”.

In a statement from Siemens on Tuesday, it described itself as a technology partner in the relationship, which would “help support the region’s energy transition”, following the first offshore wind projects proposed off the coast.

Marathon Group’s divisions include electrical, data and construction services provider Marathon Electrical and modular construction business Marathon Modular.

“… [A] once-in-a-generation transition like this needs significant focus, collaboration and consultation to ensure we put in place systems that are sustainable now and in future,” said Brett Singh, founder and Director of Marathon Group.

“Having worked in the local community for almost 40 years, we not only have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of the region but are deeply committed to doing what’s best for our communities, our people and for our future generations.

“However, we can’t go at it alone. Which is why it’s great to have a global technology giant like Siemens, who have supported Victoria’s energy journey since the beginning, now continuing to support our region as we transition to a more renewable future.”

The Victorian government has declared Gippsland as one of the state’s six Renewable Energy Zones (REZ.)

State energy minister Lily D’Ambrosio said, “Victoria is proudly Australia’s offshore wind leader with our legislated targets starting at least 2 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2032”, adding that the Siemens/Marathon MoU “highlights the strength of our growing renewable energy industry.”

The partnership news follows an announcement last week by Siemens with Newcastle-based electrical engineering firm Ampcontrol on technology solutions for battery energy storage and grid applications.

Peter Halliday, CEO of Siemens Australia and New Zealand said that his company had a heritage in the region going back to 1911, when Siemens’ consulting engineers advised the state “that Latrobe Valley in Gippsland should be the state’s electricity hub. 

“One hundred and thirteen years later, we’re proud to announce the MoU with Marathon Group to help the region and the communities through the next phase of energy transition… The MoU outlines our position as a technology partner to Marathon Group as they work on upcoming energy projects in Gippsland.”

Picture: Halliday, Singh, Brett Watson from Siemens, and Wellington Shire Mayor Ian Bye (supplied.)

Further reading

Ampcontrol, Siemens expand partnership

Siemens products to be manufactured in Adelaide in world first

CH4, Siemens sign tech agreement to digitalise production of methane-minimising seaweed extract

Ampcontrol announces shared Destiny with offshore wind developer

Government acts to open up offshore wind power production