Source - reNews - US states procure 2.9GW of offshore wind

The states of Massachusetts and Rhode Island have collectively awarded contracts for 2,878 MW of new offshore wind energy capacity across three projects, signaling a significant boost to the region’s renewable energy goals.

Massachusetts has opted to secure 1,087 MW from Ocean Wind’s SouthCoast Wind project, out of the 1,287 MW available from the multistate initiative. Additionally, the state will procure the full 791 MW from Avangrid’s New England Wind 1 project and up to 800 MW from CIP and Iberdrola’s Vineyard Wind 2, which has a total capacity of 1,200 MW. Meanwhile, Rhode Island has agreed to take the remaining 200 MW from the SouthCoast Wind project.

Ocean Winds' CEO, Craig Windram, commented on the development: “Today marks a pivotal moment for New England’s energy future, one where offshore wind will help meet Massachusetts’ and Rhode Island’s ambitious climate goals and the increasing demand for electricity. It is also an important milestone for Ocean Winds as we continue to strengthen our activities in the United States.”

Following the contract awards, SouthCoast Wind will now enter negotiations with the largest electric utilities in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Construction of the project is expected to begin in late 2025, contingent upon securing all necessary federal, state, and local permits, as well as a final investment decision.

As part of its operational strategy, SouthCoast Wind plans to utilize the Marine Commerce Terminal in New Bedford, MA, as its turbine marshaling area, while its operations and maintenance base will be located at Foss Terminal in the same city. Additionally, a crew transfer and administrative hub will be established in Rhode Island.

The New England Wind 1 project, developed by Avangrid, is expected to generate over 4,400 full-time equivalent jobs and contribute $3 billion to the local economy. The project will also lead to the development of a new marshalling port in Salem, MA, and an offshore wind manufacturing facility in New Bedford. Construction is anticipated to start in 2025, with full commercial operation expected by 2029, pending the approval of a power purchase agreement.

Anne Reynolds, Vice President for Offshore Wind at American Clean Power, praised the joint efforts of the two states, saying: “The offshore wind solicitation awards by Massachusetts and Rhode Island demonstrate the New England states’ strong commitment to this new, clean source of electricity, and mark the first time that states have worked together on awarding offshore wind power contracts.”

This substantial investment in offshore wind will have a direct impact on recruitment, as the creation of thousands of jobs and new industry infrastructure will drive significant demand for skilled labor in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and maritime operations. The projects will also boost the local economy, attracting talent and fostering long-term employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector.

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