BOSTON, MA -- Today, project bids for offshore wind development in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island were due to the state's three respective energy and environmental agencies. The proposal submissions mark a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to decarbonize the region, reduce dangerous emissions, and bolster clean, renewable offshore wind across the North Atlantic coast.
Massachusetts’ Department of Energy Resources (DOER), Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), and Rhode Island Energy first announced the tri-state procurement process for future state-crossing offshore wind farms last fall.
Together, the three states’ solicitations are for up to 6,000 MW of offshore wind power. The selection of individual projects will depend on cost/benefit assessments and other evaluation criteria developed and conducted by the states. The state offices will announce selected projects on August 7, with contracts set to be executed by October 9.
New England is home to some of the nation’s best offshore wind resources, giving the region a unique advantage in reaping clean energy’s economic and climate benefits. According to a recent Climate Nexus poll, two-thirds of U.S. coastal county residents support offshore wind development.
"We are excited to see the submission of new offshore project proposals capable of reducing climate emissions, investing in local communities and jobs, and diversifying our electric grid," said Vick Mohanka, Sierra Club Massachusetts Chapter Director. "As the tri-state procurement process moves forward, we commit to working alongside our grassroots and blue-collar partners to ensure Massachusetts officials select responsible, beneficial projects that promise a just transition to a clean energy economy."
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.