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Explore expert insights and industry perspectives on offshore wind energy from AOWA's network of thought leaders, innovators, and policy voices. Op-Eds After Empire June 19th. 2025 Written by Dawn MacDonald, Global Offshore Wind Sector Lead at AECOM Read More Let Developers Lead: The Smarter Path Forward For Offshore Wind May 30th, 2025 Written by Siniša Lozo, Director of Business Development at Naver Energy Read More Offshore Wind: The Reliability Anchor Hiding in Plain Sight May 16th, 2025 Written by Adrienne Downey, Director of Offshore Wind at Power Advisory LLC. Read More

< Back After Empire June 19th. 2025 Written by Dawn MacDonald, Global Offshore Wind Sector Lead at AECOM Now that Empire Wind has gotten a reprieve from its unforeseen stop work order, the US offshore wind industry is releasing a collective sigh of relief and looking to rapidly get turbines in the water before the industry is again in the crosshairs. Not to rain on anyone’s parade, but while the industry pushes to get this next round of projects online, a bit of contemplation of ‘what’s next’ is worthwhile for those of us not on the front lines. The administration’s U-turn on the Empire Wind’s stop work order gives the US domestic offshore wind market some confidence that business pragmatism may ultimately outweigh the new administration’s opposition to the sector. The US market’s downturn could ultimately benefit the global OSW market, releasing pressure on stretched global OEMs and investors, however, the implications for long term confidence in the US market is unclear at this point. Impressive Progress to Date There are currently five commercial scale offshore wind projects (including Empire Wind ), in construction in the US, including Dominion Energy ’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) Commercial project, Ørsted ’s Revolution and Sunrise wind projects and the Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners / Avangrid Vineyard wind project. Barring any further interruptions to these late state projects, we should expect to see around 6 GW of offshore wind deployed on US coasts and injecting power into US grids by the end of 2027. Significant investments have been made in developing the supporting infrastructure to build this initial tranche of generation assets, including: A Jones Act compliant wind turbine installation vessel ( WTIV ), the Charybdis , as well as other smaller bespoke vessels. Multiple ports to support project construction and operations. (New Bedford Commerce Terminal in MA, Port of New London in CT, Port of Davisville in RI, The South Brooklyn Marine Terminal in NY, and The New Jersey Wind Port). Manufacturing facilities to build some of the key components of the projects like high voltage subsea cables in Charleston, South Carolina and Chesapeake, Virginia by Nexans and LS GreenLink respectively. While this is meaningful progress, it’s quite different from the level of development envisioned by the prior administration in implementing the Inflation Reduction Act and the level of investment predicted by the industry. With the recent changes in tax and regulatory policy, it’s fair to say the industry is generally not expecting substantial progress in regulatory approval or construction for the next three and a half years beyond the 6 GW mentioned above. So, what might a renewed view of US offshore wind look like to potential developers and states in 2028? Cautious Optimism Developers and investors who’ve collectively sunk billions into the market are likely counting on a couple points to support the ultimate return of the US OSW market. - A backlog of generation , particularly in the US Northeast: The region is currently largely powered by natural gas, nuclear power, and hydropower. Several of these existing power generation faculties are targeted for retirement over the next decade. Combined with the increased power demand driven by increased electrification and new demands like data centers, there is a significant need for new generation in the region, which the ISOs in the region had been looking to offshore wind to fill. Should the next phase of consented projects, including the next phase of Empire Wind and Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind , not progress through to financial close as planned, ISOs in the region will have a gap in the generation side of their long-range plans. What alternative technology can fill that gap? Per recent comments from the CEO of NextEra Energy Resources a, the US’s largest power developer, a new natural gas power plant would be looking at a deployment in 2030 or later , and a cost of $2,400/kW . Should this timeline and pricing hold true, the next tranche of consented OSW projects is likely to have a path to competitiveness come 2028. - More advanced technology : The current set of projects are generally anticipated to be using 14-15 MW turbines – a postponement of 4 years may allow developers to deploy the next generation of turbines with unit capacity of 18 MW or more. The US projects may also be able to benefit from future advancements in cables, electrical systems, foundation designs and installation technologies, giving them a potential benefit in terms of levelized cost of energy compared to todays estimates. - A more fully developed global supply chain : OSW projects around the world are currently suffering from significant pressure on the global supply chain, including critical HVDC infrastructure, vessels and other key components. Some of that stress was previously anticipated to be addressed through new manufacturing and assembly facilities in the US, backstopped by the domestic offshore wind industry and further supported by local content requirements and investment incentives as set out in the IRA and other policies. With the current project forecast and US policy changes, these OEMs are likely looking for more favorable investment environments, likely in Europe, the UK or Asia. Developers looking at US OSW developments in 2028 may be able to secure significantly better commercial terms from the supply chain based on reduced global supply chain pressure, however local content expectations may need to be revisited as OEM may be less willing to further extend there recently expanded manufacturing base. Objective Realism However, the set of 2028 US OSW projects will also face substantial hurdles. - Technological competition : While, as noted, OSW compares favorably on average to alternative technologies such as gas fired power, the current burdens on offshore wind business cases will undoubtedly support the advancement of alternative power sources including gas, micro and small modular reactors (SMRs) and possibly interconnectors for incremental electricity imports as utilities look to close the gap between demand and generation. As these alternatives technologies are deployed, their respective supply chains will be further developed, degrading the current cost and schedule advantage for offshore wind. - Investment entrenched in proven, stable markets : For all its recurrent challenges with short term OSW market volatility and uncertainty, looking over the long term, European jurisdictions have shown a steady commitment the offshore wind sector for decades. Investors, with their US projects on hold, or otherwise looking to invest in the industry, may divert their capital to more established European markets. Given the long-term nature of these projects, this likely refocus on Europe may well be ‘sticky’ leaving less capital available for reinvestment in US projects late in the decade should policy shift. - Further maturation of new jurisdictions : A four year pause in the US offshore wind sector may allow emerging markets some breathing space to develop, by opening up investment capacity and room in the supply chain for projects in Australia, South America, the Baltic, Canada and other regions early in their OSW development. This may enable some of these new markets to get a foothold in the global market, attracting investment from developers and OEMs. For the US, this may result in more competition for foreign capital if the market looks to restart late in the decade, and the US may need to reset its expectations in any future leasing rounds and procurement processes. - Increased perception of US regulatory risk : Underpinning all of this is the changing view of foreign and domestic investors into political and regulatory risk for US projects in the offshore wind industry and more broadly. Before committing development funds to multi-billion-dollar projects with decade long timelines, investors will need to quantify the risk that these prospective projects might be derailed by a future administration. That risk will be costed into the economic models, impacting pricing for future procurements, return expectations and project valuations. A Pragmatic Path Forward So where does this leave the US OSW industry? I’ll certainly be holding my breath alongside the rest of the industry looking for this first tranche of commercial projects to finish construction and start operations. Provided the permits for the next tranche of projects withstand the next few years, the proponents will likely face significantly different market conditions as they look to restart their projects in 2028. The uncertainty may lead some developers to look to divest rather than suspend their projects, leading to an increase in transaction activity as those market players with lower risk tolerance or less patience leave the market. While these are trying times, the US OSW may do well to look to lessons learned from prior, albeit less dramatic, downturns in the European industry’s history: Stem the bleeding : We’re already seeing evidence of the remaining projects putting their heads down, reducing spend and waiting for more favorable investment conditions. LinkedIn feeds are filled with key project staff who’ve been laid off to reduce project costs and discretionary development funding is being deferred until the market is improved. Retain key assets : While reducing development costs is essential, developers cannot lose sight of the need to retain key assets, including key project team members, relationships with regulators, utilities, ports and the supply chain. Long-term, the market rewards agility : Those projects that can continue to negotiate with suppliers, utilities and regulators to adapt their schedules, project scopes and contract terms will be better able to rapidly pivot as the market, regulation and trade policy evolve. Ultimately the winners, if we can call anyone that in this situation, will be the projects able to think creatively, collaborate with favorable states to retain sector progress where possible and adapt their strategies to meet the new reality. Previous Next

< Back Offshore Wind: The Reliability Anchor Hiding in Plain Sight May 16th, 2025 Written by Adrienne Downey, Director of Offshore Wind at Power Advisory LLC. As electricity demand surges and fossil generation retires, North America’s grid is entering a reliability crunch. According to NERC, half the U.S. grid could face capacity shortfalls within the decade. In PJM, summer peaks are forecast to reach 230 GW by 2045 , while New York’s winter peak could hit 52 GW by 2040 — more than double today’s level. Traditionally, gas has been the grid’s safety net. But that role is slipping. Turbine backlogs now push deployment into the 2030s, and new 25% steel and aluminum tariffs add cost and complexity. Even firm resources are proving far less firm than assumed. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are the next big hope for some. On paper, they offer scalable, flexible, zero-carbon nuclear capacity. But early analysis pegs SMR costs at $863/kW annually — about $109/MWh , assuming a generous 90% capacity factor. As Twain said, “History doesn’t repeat, but it often rhymes.” The pattern of underestimating costs for complex, capital-heavy infrastructure should give anyone pause. SMRs remain unproven at scale, subject to long permitting timelines, and exposed to the same material tariffs now hobbling other technologies. And beyond economics, they reopen nuclear’s thorniest questions — from operational risk to multi-century waste management. The U.S. has no active plan for permanent high-level waste storage, and Yucca Mountain remains stalled. Expecting institutions to safely steward radioactive material over millennia, when most policy can barely see past the next budget cycle, is a gamble with profound implications. What we need is a resource that’s reliable, scalable, clean, and ready to build now. That’s offshore wind. Solar and onshore wind are foundational to our energy future, and the recent surge in storage is a welcome boon. But storage still needs power . Offshore wind brings unique value: strong, steady output during winter, when electrification-driven demand is rising. Along the Eastern Seaboard, ELCC studies show offshore wind delivering up to 69% of its nameplate capacity during peak conditions. In New York, a 25 GW offshore portfolio could contribute up to 10 GW of winter reliability — nearly 20% of peak. In PJM, New Jersey’s 11 GW target could deliver 7.6 GW of ELCC-qualified capacity. Pull offshore wind from the table, and reserve margins collapse. Up to 20 GW of dependable, clean capacity disappears. Scarcity pricing kicks in. Ratepayers take the hit — or worse yet, are left in the dark. And this all assumes everything else goes right — new gas, storage, seamless imports. But now even Canadian hydro imports face a 25% tariff — a cost hit households can ill afford — especially during winter, when rising grocery prices, heating bills, and inflation have already strained family budgets. Like all new generation in active development, offshore wind is tariff-exposed today — but once built, it delivers power without volatile fuel costs, trade dependencies, or emissions. And as we’ll explore in a future piece, the influence of zero-fuel resources on market pricing may prove just as powerful. Resilience isn’t ideological — it’s structural. And offshore wind is a pillar we can’t afford to remove. You don’t need to believe in climate change to believe in keeping the lights on. You just need to believe in the numbers. And they say offshore wind isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. Previous Next

< Back Let Developers Lead: The Smarter Path Forward For Offshore Wind May 30th, 2025 Written by Siniša Lozo, Director of Business Development at Naver Energy I have worked across Europe, from mature to emerging offshore wind markets, wearing many hats: project developer, market builder, policy shaper. In some markets, we had to build the rules and the project simultaneously. And what I have learned is this: if you want offshore wind to succeed - you need to let those who develop lead – and listen to the local community. This isn’t a plea for deregulation or a swipe at government. It’s about being honest with what works. And what works is speed, flexibility, and real-world engagement—something the entire offshore wind sector desperately needs right now. Offshore Wind is a U.S. Renaissance Waiting to Happen Let’s be clear - offshore wind isn’t just a climate tool. It’s an industrial renaissance waiting to happen. It creates high-quality jobs, powers heavy industry, revives shipyards and ports, and strengthens energy independence. Done right, it’s a win for both sides of the political aisle: · For progressives: clean energy and green jobs. · For conservatives: private enterprise, national strength, and less reliance on foreign supply chains. That’s the beauty of offshore wind—it can speak both languages. But to realize this, we need a new way of thinking. Stop Over Planning. Start Listening - & Start Building East Coast projects have struggled under a plan-led model—rigid, top-down, slow. Permitting delays, rising costs, and canceled projects have shown how fragile over-engineered systems can be. Europe has seen these problems too. While the U.S. East Coast offers the first commercial-scale offshore wind farm, Vineyard Wind , it took more than a decade to get there. Permitting delays, legal battles, and regulatory complexity dragged the project out far longer than it should have. It was a plan-led project from the start, shaped heavily by federal processes rather than developer initiative. Vineyard Wind is a milestone - but also a warning. A cautionary success story. For every project like it, others have failed or stalled. Ørsted’s cancellation of Ocean Wind 1 and 2 in New Jersey sent shockwaves through the industry. Projects on paper don’t always become steel in the water. Far from it - Europe has faced the same. Meanwhile, on the West Coast, California’s CADEMO project tells a different story. Just 60 MW - but light-years ahead in terms of process. Developer-led, community-engaged, union-connected. They didn’t wait for a perfect policy - they got to work. The same goes for similar projects in Europe. I call them pathfinder projects . In my view, these pathfinder projects are quietly setting a smarter precedent. Developer-led from the beginning - because they move faster, engage earlier, and most importantly: they build local trust by working hand-in-hand with unions, regulators, and local communities. They prove that when developers are empowered - not micromanaged - - they can drive innovation and build momentum alongside key local stakeholders. When Developers Lead and Collaborate With The Local Community, Things Happen: · They move faster than bureaucracy. · They adapt quickly to real-world conditions. · They build trust early - before resistance forms. · They help shape smarter regulation through action, not abstraction. Early stakeholder engagement is key - and the mindset must be proactive , not reactive . And this isn’t just California dreaming. The global proof is already out there: · In Scotland , Neart na Gaoithe built stakeholder trust early and shaved months off its timeline. · In Australia , Ørsted is embedding its Gippsland wind farms into the local community strategy from day one. · In Denmark , the Thor project didn’t just tick boxes—it listened. RWE invited public feedback before anything was final. That engagement shifted infrastructure plans and brought communities on board. These aren’t buzzwords. They’re the difference between headlines and steel in the water. Conclusion If we want offshore wind to succeed in the U.S. - politically, economically, and socially - a developer-led process is needed. We need to build trust , momentum , and ownership . CADEMO should be seen as a blueprint , not an exception in the US. It may be small in size, but it’s massive in meaning. It proves that when developers lead - and when communities are part of the journey - offshore wind can not only survive in tough markets, it can thrive. Doing it right means listening before building , engaging before imposing , and acting before over planning . It means recognizing that developer-led models, guided by real-world experience and grounded in local relationships, can outperform rigid, plan-led ones - whether in California, Denmark, Scotland, or Australia. This moment is too important to be trapped in slow-moving frameworks or even “stopped” entirely in the US. Offshore wind can be the superpower of energy - but only if we unleash those ready to build and let them lead. Done right, and sold right, the U.S. has the potential to become the North Star of offshore wind globally. Previous Next

Meet The Team Serene Hamsho Founder & President Sarah Collmus Director of Training Collin Fields Marketing & Communications Manager José Juan González Course Coordinator Hitesh Sancheti Digital Program Manager Negin Hashemi Content Coordinator Wafaa Al Habach Digital Media Coordinator

AOWA’s scholarship program empowers the next generation of offshore wind professionals. Apply today and advance your career in clean energy Empower Your Career with AOWA AOWA's scholarship program is designed to empower the next generation of leaders in offshore wind energy. We are committed to providing financial assistance to individuals who demonstrate a passion for renewable energy and the potential to contribute to the industry's future growth. Our scholarships are awarded on a case-by-case basis and are intended to make our comprehensive training programs accessible to a diverse range of participants. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, to ensure that the offshore wind sector benefits from the broadest possible range of talents and perspectives. Apply For a Scholarship Complete the form to be considered for our scholarship program. First Name Last Name Phone Email Address Company / Organization Name Current Title/Position Select an Address Course applying for (You may apply for multiple courses) Choose a course Ethnicity Choose an option Are you considered a minority? * Yes No Prefer not to say Are you a veteran? * Yes No Prefer not to say Gender Choose an option Do you have a disability? * Yes No Prefer not to say Region Additional Information (Optional) I understand that scholarships are not guaranteed and will be considered on a case-by-case and course-by-course basis. I certify that the information provided is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. Submit Thanks for submitting! You will be notified of the decision via email.

Learn more about AOWA’s mission to train and empower professionals in the offshore wind industry through expert-led programs American Offshore Wind Academy The American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) is a pioneering initiative driven by offshore wind industry leaders who are committed to advancing and strengthening the sector. The Academy’s mission is to empower and advance the offshore wind industry in the United States and worldwide through comprehensive education, training, and collaboration. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and industry growth, the Academy strives to empower individuals, organizations, governments, and the broader offshore wind community to make a significant and lasting impact on the clean energy landscape of the world. Board of Advisors Eric Thumma Head of U.S., Corio Generation Jim Bennett Former Chief of The Office of Renewable Energy Programs, BOEM Amy McGinty Vice President, Vestas North America Alla Weinstein Founder & CEO, Trident Winds Inc Mike Starrett Chief Commercial Officer, Ocean Winds North America Adrienne Downey Principal Engineer and Country Manager, Hexicon North American Mandar Pandit Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, GE Grid Solutions Jay Borkland Supply Chain and Port Director, Avangrid Serene Hamsho President, American Offshore Wind Academy Theodore Paradise Energy Partner, K&L Gates Lydia Lostan Offshore Wind Director, EDF Renewables North America STAY IN THE KNOW Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!

American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) offers expert-led offshore wind training programs for professionals. Advance your career with industry-leading courses EXPERTS TEACHING EXPERTS View Courses 115+ SME Instructors 50+ Comprehensive Courses 21+ Training Partners 430+ Trained Professionals 30+ Countries Industry Trusted Partner American Offshore Wind Academy The American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) is a pioneering initiative driven by offshore wind industry leaders who are committed to advancing and strengthening the sector. The Academy’s mission is to empower and advance the offshore wind industry in the United States and worldwide through comprehensive education, training, and collaboration. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and industry growth, the Academy strives to empower individuals, organizations, governments, and the broader offshore wind community to make a significant and lasting impact on the clean energy landscape of the world. STAY IN THE KNOW Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!

< Back Offshore Wind: Fueling Economic Growth Across the U.S. February 12, 2025 Offshore wind power is more than just a clean energy source; it's a catalyst for economic revitalization, creating a ripple effect of jobs, investment, and opportunity that stretches across the United States. While the turbines themselves capture the imagination of many, the true story lies in the intricate supply chain that fuels this burgeoning industry, a network that spans the nation and breathes new life into communities from coast to coast. The narrative of offshore wind isn't confined to coastal regions. It's a story woven across the country, where American ingenuity and manufacturing prowess are driving a wave of economic growth. From steel mills in the Midwest to shipyards along the Gulf Coast, businesses are seizing the opportunities presented by this burgeoning sector, creating a tapestry of economic activity that benefits communities nationwide. Manufacturing Momentum: Building the Foundation for a Clean Energy Future The offshore wind industry relies on a complex web of suppliers, manufacturers, and skilled workers. This translates into a surge in demand for everything from raw materials like steel to specialized components like turbines and cables. Steel mills in states like Ohio, Kentucky, and Alabama are ramping up production to meet the demand for wind-grade steel, fueling a resurgence in American manufacturing. Factories are also expanding and retooling to produce nacelles, blades, and other critical components, creating high-paying jobs and revitalizing industrial centers. This manufacturing momentum isn't just about big corporations. Small and medium-sized businesses across the country are finding their niche in the offshore wind supply chain. From providing specialized engineering services to fabricating custom parts, these businesses are becoming integral players in the industry, contributing to local economies and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs. Shipbuilding Surge: Launching a New Era of Maritime Prosperity The construction and maintenance of offshore wind farms require a specialized fleet of vessels, creating a surge in demand for shipbuilding and related maritime services. Shipyards in states like Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and Wisconsin are buzzing with activity, building and retrofitting vessels that will transport components, install turbines, and maintain offshore wind farms for decades to come. This shipbuilding boom is not only creating jobs in coastal communities but also supporting a vast network of suppliers across the country, from engine manufacturers to electronics providers. This resurgence in shipbuilding is breathing new life into once-dormant shipyards, creating opportunities for skilled tradespeople like welders, electricians, and machinists. It's also driving investment in port infrastructure, as coastal communities prepare to serve as hubs for offshore wind development. A National Network: Jobs and Opportunity Across 40 States The impact of the offshore wind supply chain extends far beyond manufacturing and shipbuilding. A recent report from Oceantic Network revealed that the industry's supply chain touches 40 states, with nearly 2,000 supplier contracts in place. This means that even landlocked states are benefiting from the offshore wind boom, with businesses providing everything from logistics and transportation services to financial and legal expertise. The ripple effect of this economic activity is significant. The offshore wind industry is not just creating jobs directly related to manufacturing and construction; it's also supporting a wide range of ancillary industries, from hospitality and retail to education and training. This creates a multiplier effect, where the benefits of offshore wind development spread throughout local communities and regional economies. Investing in the Future: Building a Skilled Workforce The growth of the offshore wind industry requires a skilled workforce, and investments in education and training are crucial to ensuring that American workers are ready to seize these opportunities. Community colleges and vocational schools are developing specialized training programs to prepare workers for careers in manufacturing, shipbuilding, and offshore operations. Apprenticeships and on-the-job training programs are providing workers with the hands-on experience they need to succeed in this dynamic industry. These workforce development initiatives are not only creating pathways to well-paying jobs but also ensuring that the U.S. has the talent pool it needs to compete in the global offshore wind market. Live-virtual trainings on technical aspects of offshore wind are also playing a pivotal role in preparing a dynamic workforce. These interactive sessions provide an accessible way to disseminate critical knowledge about the complex technologies and processes involved in offshore wind, from turbine installation and maintenance to grid integration and safety protocols. For industry professionals, these trainings offer opportunities to upskill, stay abreast of the latest innovations, and enhance their expertise, leading to improved project efficiency and performance. Simultaneously, they empower workforce development initiatives by equipping potential new entrants with foundational knowledge, bridging the skills gap, and creating pathways to well-paying jobs in this rapidly expanding sector. The American Offshore Wind Academy offers a variety of technical training taught by industry professionals. Check out some of our available courses: Transmission , MetOcean , Risk Management , Ports & Vessels , Financing , Geophysical & Geotechnical , OSW Upskilling . A Win-Win: Clean Energy and Economic Growth The offshore wind industry represents a win-win for America. It's a pathway to clean, reliable energy that reduces our dependence on fossil fuels and mitigates the impacts of climate change. It's also a powerful engine for economic growth, creating jobs, driving investment, and revitalizing communities across the nation. By boosting domestic manufacturing and employing skilled workers across the country, the offshore wind industry demonstrates that clean energy and economic prosperity can go hand in hand. Check out this interactive map from ACP: Proposed Investments in U.S. Offshore Wind Sources Oceanic Network , ACP , Real Clear Energy , Offshore Wind Biz , Riviera Previous Next

< Back Navigating the Waters: Offshore Wind and Whale Protection February 19, 2025 Misinformation campaigns, often fueled by fossil fuel interests, have falsely linked offshore wind development to increased whale deaths. These campaigns exploit public concern for marine life, using emotionally charged imagery and selective data to create a misleading narrative. They frequently misrepresent the primary causes of whale mortality – ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear – while downplaying the significant efforts undertaken by the offshore wind industry to protect marine mammals. This misinformation not only obstructs the urgently needed transition to clean energy but also diverts attention from the real threats facing whales, hindering effective conservation. Critically evaluating information sources and relying on peer-reviewed scientific research is crucial for understanding the true relationship between offshore wind and marine mammal health. As of 2024, no U.S. whale death has been linked to offshore wind operations. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) , in collaboration with offshore wind developers and environmental organizations, has developed “ Best Management Practices for North Atlantic Right Whales During Offshore Wind Energy Construction and Operations Along the U.S. East Coast. ” These guidelines, along with agreements like the one signed by Vineyard Wind, NRDC, Conservation Law Foundation, and National Wildlife Federation, provide a robust framework for balancing clean energy development with marine mammal protection. While the offshore wind industry is a crucial component of the clean energy transition, it recognizes its responsibility to minimize impacts on vulnerable species like whales. Fortunately, the industry is actively implementing a range of measures to safeguard these animals. Siting: Choosing the Right Locations Siting is the first line of defense. It involves carefully analyzing available data on whale migration routes, feeding grounds, breeding areas, and other critical habitats. Developers work with scientists and regulatory agencies to identify areas where wind farm development would pose the least risk to marine mammals. This often involves excluding designated protected areas, known aggregation sites, and important migratory corridors. While avoiding all interactions is impossible, strategic siting significantly minimizes the potential for negative impacts. Advanced modeling and predictive tools are increasingly being used to refine site selection and further reduce risks. Vessel Speed Limits: Slowing Down for Safety Vessel strikes are a major threat to whales. Implementing and strictly enforcing speed limits for all vessels associated with offshore wind projects is crucial. This includes construction vessels, transport ships, crew transfer vessels, and maintenance boats. Lower speeds (typically 10 knots or less in whale sensitive areas) give vessel operators more time to spot whales and avoid collisions. Slower speeds also reduce the severity of impacts if a collision does occur, potentially minimizing injuries or fatalities. GPS tracking and other monitoring technologies can be used to ensure compliance with speed limits. Seasonal Construction Restrictions: Timing is Everything Many whale species undertake seasonal migrations, moving between breeding grounds and feeding areas. Construction activities, especially pile driving, can generate significant underwater noise that disrupts these movements and communication. Seasonal restrictions, informed by scientific data on whale presence and migration patterns, can minimize these disruptions. For example, pile driving might be restricted during periods when whales are known to frequent a particular area. These restrictions are often site-specific and tailored to the particular species present and their behavior. Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM): Listening for Whales PAM systems use underwater microphones (hydrophones) to listen for whale vocalizations. These systems can detect the presence of whales even when they are not visually observed, providing a valuable early warning system. PAM can be deployed 24/7, providing continuous monitoring, unlike visual observation which is limited by daylight and weather conditions. The data collected from PAM systems can be used to inform real-time decision-making regarding construction activities, allowing work to be paused or modified if whales are detected in the vicinity. Image credit: NOAA Protected Species Observers (PSOs): Eyes on the Water Trained PSOs are stationed on construction vessels and platforms to visually scan the surrounding waters for marine mammals. They are trained to identify different species and recognize behaviors that may indicate distress or avoidance. PSOs have the authority to halt construction activities if whales or other protected species are observed within a designated safety zone. They also record sightings and other relevant data, contributing to long-term monitoring efforts. Night vision and other specialized equipment can also be used to enhance visual observation capabilities. Image credit: NOAA Bubble Curtains: A Barrier for Underwater Noise Bubble curtains are a noise mitigation technology used to reduce the impact of underwater noise generated by pile driving. They consist of a perforated pipe or ring placed around the pile driving site, which releases a stream of air bubbles. These bubbles create a barrier that absorbs and deflects sound waves, reducing the amount of noise that travels outwards. Double bubble curtains, with two concentric rings of bubbles, provide even greater noise reduction (up to nearly 95%). Image credit: Continental Other Mitigation Measures and Ongoing Research Aerial Surveys: Regular aerial surveys, conducted by trained observers, provide a broader view of whale distribution and behavior in and around project areas. These surveys can be used to validate PAM data and identify areas of high whale activity. Long-Term Research and Monitoring: Comprehensive research and monitoring programs are essential for understanding the long-term effects of offshore wind development on marine mammals. These programs involve collecting data on whale populations, behavior, habitat use, and exposure to noise and other stressors. Collaboration between developers, scientists, and environmental groups is crucial for ensuring that research efforts are well-designed and the results are shared widely. Technological Advancements: The offshore wind industry is continually exploring and developing new technologies to minimize impacts on marine mammals. This includes quieter installation methods, improved acoustic monitoring systems, and innovative deterrents. Continued research and development are essential for further reducing risks and ensuring the coexistence of offshore wind and marine life. Habitat Restoration and Enhancement: In some cases, developers may undertake habitat restoration or enhancement projects to offset potential impacts on marine mammals. This could involve restoring degraded coastal habitats or creating artificial reefs to provide alternative foraging or breeding areas. The offshore wind industry recognizes its responsibility to protect marine life. These implemented measures, coupled with continued investment in research and innovation, demonstrate a commitment to minimizing impacts and ensuring the health and safety of whales and other marine mammals. While offshore wind plays a vital role in the clean energy transition, the industry understands that addressing the primary threats to whales, alongside responsible development, is absolutely essential for the long-term survival of these magnificent creatures. Sources: NRDC , Saildrone , NOAA , Wind Exchange , Environment America , Conservation Law Foundation Previous Next

< Back AOWA Collaborates with MassCEC: Targeted Offshore Wind Programs for Minority and Woman Entrepreneurs (MWBEs) February 17, 2025 Thanks to MassCEC, we will create targeted workshops, skills training sessions, and networking opportunities to empower minority and women entrepreneurs (MWBEs) to succeed and become leaders in the clean energy space. As such, this form is intended for survey takers who fall into this category AND have an interest in the offshore wind space (there is no need to have previous experience in offshore wind). This survey should take about 5-10 minutes. Your valuable feedback will help us understand the needs of MWBEs, so we can develop the best programs possible. We thank you very much for your support, and look forward to working with you soon! All feedback will be treated confidentially (results will be only reported on collectively) - we welcome your open responses. Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Survey Previous Next

< Back U.S. Offshore Wind: An Update on Near-Term Projects March 24, 2025 The U.S. offshore wind industry, while making leaps and bounds in some areas, has faced a significant amount of turbulence in recent years. A recent report released by the American Clean Power Association (ACP) projects about 14 GW of wind capacity offshore U.S. coastlines by 2030, significantly shy of the goal of 30 GW set by the Biden administration in 2021. The 2024 Offshore Wind Market Report by National Renewable Energy Laboratory projects $65 billion will be invested in offshore wind projects by 2030. According to the report, there is 56 GW under development across 37 leases in the United States. There are currently 12 GW of projects with active offtake agreements, including 5 GW under active construction at Vineyard Wind, Revolution Wind, Sunrise Wind, and Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind. There is merely 172 MW of offshore wind capacity currently installed in the United States as of 2024. This is only a fraction of China’s current capacity (the global leader in offshore wind capacity) with nearly 38 GW online. Increasing material costs, high interest rates, and supply chain disruptions have led multiple offshore wind companies in the last few years to cancel or renegotiate power contracts for planned offshore wind farms. The current administration's policy shifts have also significantly reshaped the near-term trajectory of the U.S. offshore wind pipeline. Following a presidential memorandum that paused offshore wind leasing and mandated a review of existing permits, numerous projects have encountered delays, divestments, and financial write-downs due to heightened economic uncertainties. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the near-term U.S. offshore wind projects, categorizing them based on their status: operational, under construction, approved but not yet under construction, paused or delayed, and temporarily canceled. The Overall Outlook: - 0.172 GW in operation - 5 GW under construction - 3.8 GW approved, not yet under construction - 11.5 GW delayed or paused - 9.6 GW temporarily cancelled Projects in Operation: The U.S. currently has 172 MW (0.172 GW) of operational offshore wind capacity across three pioneering projects. South Fork Wind : America’s first commercial scale offshore wind farm by Ørsted & Skyborn Renewables located 35 miles east of Montauk Point, NY. It’s composed of twelve Siemens Gamesa 11 MW turbines with a nameplate capacity of 130 MW . First approved by the Long Island Power Authority in 2017, construction of South Fork Wind started in January 2022 and ended in March 2024. The project powers around 70,000 Long Island homes. Block Island Pilot Project : A 30 MW pilot project by Ørsted off the coast of Rhode Island that is composed of five GE Haliade 6 MW offshore wind turbines which have replaced 5 diesel generators that previously powered the island. A mere 10% of the output covers 100% of Block Island’s power consumption with the rest being exported to the mainland. Coastal Virginia Pilot Project : A pilot project ( 12 MW ) composed of two 6-megawatt offshore wind turbine generators located approximately 27 miles east of the city of Virginia Beach, Virginia in water depths up to 79 ft. The turbines are the first to be installed in United States federal waters and will be used to advise a larger commercial scale development. The pilot project has been fully operational since Fall 2020. Projects Under Construction: There are currently four projects under construction representing around 5 GW of renewable electricity. Vineyard Wind 1 : Vineyard Wind is currently building the nation's first utility-scale offshore wind project over 15 miles off the coast of Massachusetts with Avangrid & Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP). The project will generate renewable energy for over 400,000 homes and businesses. The 806 MW project will consist of 62 General Electric Haliade-X turbines, each capable of generating 13 MW of electricity. Status : Construction activities began in Barnstable in November of 2021 where the onshore substation and onshore export cables are located. Offshore construction activities began in 2022 with offshore export cable installation. Wind turbine installation activities in the lease area began in 2023 and are ongoing. Vineyard Wind 1 achieved first power on January 2, 2024, when one turbine delivered approximately 5 MW of power to the electricity grid. On June 26, 2024, Avangrid announced that it had placed 10 turbines into production. The remaining monopile foundations and transition pieces are still being installed and cable laying operations for the inter-array cables will be conducted throughout April 2025. Recent News : A blade failure on July 13, 2024, resulted in a pause to construction along with immediate remediation efforts to clean up the debris. Vineyard plans to replace all blades from the GE factory in Gaspe, Canada and continue construction. As of January 17th, 2025, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has completed a review and approved the revised COP submitted by Vineyard Wind 1 and removed the suspension order on power generation and the installation of the remaining wind turbines. More information regarding the blade incident here. Revolution Wind : Revolution Wind, the first multi-state offshore wind project will supply 715 MW of offshore wind energy to Rhode Island and Connecticut – enough clean electricity to power more than 350,000 homes. The project by Ørsted & Skyborn will consist of 65 Siemens Gamesa 11-megawatt turbines 15 miles off the Rhode Island Coast and 32 miles southeast of the Connecticut coast. Revolution Wind is adjacent to the already completed South Fork Wind project. Status : Local construction work on Revolution Wind began in 2023 and the project is expected to be fully operational by 2026. Ørsted installed the project’s first monopile foundation in May and its first wind turbine in September. So far they have successfully installed 52 foundations and 9 turbines at Revolution Wind. Revolution Wind Fact Sheet Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project (CVOW) : The largest commercial-scale offshore wind farm in the U.S. ( 2.6 GW ) composed of 176 14.7-megawatt Siemens Gamesa turbines, which will create enough renewable energy to power up to 660,000 homes. It will be the largest offshore wind project in the nation and the first owned by an electric utility company — Dominion Energy . The CVOW project is credited with creating 2,000 direct and indirect American jobs and $2 billion of economic activity. Status : The project recently reached 50% completion as the final monopiles and transition pieces were installed and remains on track for completion by the end of 2026. As of November 2024, Dominion Energy announced that 78 monopile foundations and 4 offshore substation foundations were installed for the project during the first installation season. CVOW continues to achieve significant construction milestones including the successful installation of the first 16 transition pieces which serve as the junction between the foundation and tower for each of the 176 wind turbines. Delivery of the first three 4,300-ton offshore substations to the Portsmouth Marine Terminal in Virginia Beach occurred at the end of January and the first was installed by DEME Group in mid-March. Fully fabricated monopiles, transition pieces, undersea cable and other major components continue to be delivered in preparation for on-schedule installation. Wind turbine tower and blade fabrication is also underway, with nacelle fabrication to begin later this quarter. Check out the full construction timeline here. Sunrise Wind : A 924 MW project by Ørsted consisting of 84 Siemens Gamesa 8.0-167 Direct Drive (DD) wind turbines. Located 30 miles east of Long Island’s Montauk Point, the project has the capacity to power nearly 600,000 New York homes. Click here for the latest construction updates. Status : Onshore construction began in summer of 2024. The first phase of construction included the onshore converter station on Union Avenue in Holbrook and establishing laydown yards for equipment and material storage and set-up. As of September 2024, more than half of the advanced foundation components had already been built by Riggs Distler , as the project gears up for offshore construction in 2025. Sunrise Wind is expected to be operational sometime in 2027. Check out the latest construction report here . Projects With Approval, Not Yet Under Construction: Four projects representing about 3.8 GW of renewable energy. Empire Wind : Empire Wind is being built by Equinor and will be located 15-30 miles southeast of Long Island. The project is being developed in two phases. Empire Wind 1 will be composed of 54 Vestas 15 MW turbines with a nameplate capacity of 810 MW , powering 500,000 New York homes. A second part of the lease area, Empire Wind 2 is currently in early-stage development with options currently being assessed. It will bring power onshore at the Sunset Park Onshore Substation, located next to the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal. After that, the power will continue to Gowanus Brooklyn Substation where it will interconnect into the New York City grid. Status : Equinor finalized the federal lease for Empire Wind in March 2017 and BOEM issued final approval for the Final Construction and Operations Plan (COP) in February 2024. Construction on the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal began in June 2024, with a groundbreaking ceremony. The terminal will take about two years to complete construction. Offshore construction is expected to begin in 2025, and first power is expected to be delivered in late 2026. Empire Wind 1 is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2027. Financial close was reached at the end of December 2024 with the project securing a financing package of over $3 billion USD. Maryland Offshore Wind Project : The Maryland Offshore Wind Project by US Wind, Inc consists of three planned phases, which include the proposed installation of up to 114 wind turbine generators, up to four offshore substation platforms, one meteorological tower, and up to four offshore export cable corridors. Two phases, known as MarWin and Momentum Wind , already have offshore renewable energy certificates from the State of Maryland. As for the third phase, the developers plan to build out the remainder of the lease area to fulfill ongoing, government-sponsored demands for offshore wind energy. US Wind, Maryland’s leader in offshore wind development, holds the lease rights to a federal lease area off the coast of Ocean City, Maryland. The lease area, about 80,000 acres in size, has the capacity to generate about 2.2 GW of offshore wind energy, which is enough electricity to power over 700,000 homes each year. -The first phase of US Wind’s lease area, called “ MarWin ,” is an offshore wind project that will deliver approximately 300 MW of clean, renewable electricity to Maryland by constructing 22 turbines or less over 20 miles from shore. This will power more than 92,000 homes each year. In addition to building MarWin, which was approved by the state in 2017, US Wind now also plans to develop Momentum Wind , a new 808 MW offshore wind project that will be located 15 miles off the coast of Maryland with up to 55 turbines. When taken together, the two projects will deliver 1,100 MW of clean energy to the grid, powering more than 340,000 homes with renewable energy. More information here: Fact Sheet Status : On December 3rd, 2024, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued its final approval of the company’s Construction and Operations Plan (“COP”), marking the agency’s final permit on US Wind’s federal permitting application. Additionally, the National Marine Fisheries Services (“NMFS”) issued a Letter of Authorization to US Wind on November 26, 2024, marking that agency’s final authorization for US Wind’s construction in the federal lease area off the coast of Ocean City, Maryland. On December 10th, US Wind announced that the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has approved three permit applications to connect its offshore wind power to the regional electrical grid in Sussex County, Delaware. These approvals allow US Wind to responsibly land its power cables underneath 3R’s Beach parking lot in the Delaware Seashore State Park and safely route them under the Indian River Bay, ultimately connecting to the regional electrical grid at Delmarva Power and Light’s Indian River substation in Dagsboro, Delaware. US Wind plans to begin onshore construction in 2026 and offshore construction in 2028. New England Wind (NEW) 1 & 2 : Iberdrola through Avangrid , its subsidiary in the United States is building New England 1 & 2 which will border the already operational Vineyard Wind 1 to the south in New England. Together, these three projects would have a total capacity of up to 2.6 GW of clean, renewable energy that BOEM estimates could power more than 900,000 homes each year. The projects are situated approximately 20 nautical miles (nm) south of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, and about 24 nm southwest of Nantucket, Massachusetts. The Construction and Operations plan (COP) includes up to 129 wind turbine generators, with up to five offshore export cables transmitting electricity to onshore transmission systems in the Town of Barnstable and Bristol County, Massachusetts. In July 2024, Avangrid announced that it had received full federal approval of the COP for the New England Wind 1 and 2 offshore projects. The approval of the COP follows the favorable Record of Decision (ROD) issued by the Biden Administration in April 2024. Status : On May 15, 2024, the New England Wind project was segregated into two leases, New England Wind 1 (OCS-A 0534) and New England Wind 2 (OCS-A 0561). The northern portion of the original lease was retained by Park City Wind, LLC for the New England Wind 1 Project, formerly Phase 1, and retains the original lease number given by BOEM. The southern portion of the original lease was assigned to Commonwealth Wind, LLC and is now referred to as the New England Wind 2 project, formerly Phase 2. Avangrid had already secured power purchase agreements (PPAs) for the two projects with the state electric distribution companies in Massachusetts (for Commonwealth Wind) and Connecticut (for Park City Wind). However, the developer terminated both PPAs in 2023 with plans to re-enter the projects into new state solicitations. Last march, Avangrid submitted a combined proposal for the two projects which offer the region 1,870 MW of offshore wind power, enough to power nearly 1 million homes. The developer noted that New England Wind 2 is only offered as a combined project with New England Wind 1 to capture important economics of scale and support significant grid upgrades. They also submitted a proposal for just the NEW 1 project, slated to deliver 791 MW . NEW 1 (retained by Park City Wind): The first phase of the project will have an installed capacity of 791 MW , enough energy to power 400,000 homes in the region. With local, state, and federal permits, all interconnection rights secured, and a Project Labor Agreement signed, Avangrid is awaiting approval of a power purchase agreement to begin building this new project in 2025, which is slated to reach full commercial operation by 2029. As of September 6th 2024: Massachusetts selected 791 MW of the New England Wind 1 project. NEW 2 (retained by Commonwealth Wind): Phase 2 is planned to have an installed capacity of up to 1,080 MW , according to the documents at BOEM. On January 19, 2025, the EPA issued the final Clean Air Act Title V operating permit for Commonwealth Wind, LLC’s New England Wind 2 Offshore Wind Energy Development Project. Despite receiving federal approvals, the project is currently contingent upon New England Wind 1 moving forward. Delayed or Paused Projects: Seven projects representing 11.5 GW of renewable electricity. Vineyard Northeast : Avangrid & Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) proposes to construct and operate Vineyard Northeast which covers approximately 132,370 acres and is located approximately 31 miles from Nantucket, Massachusetts and 39 miles from Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. According to the Construction & Operations Plan (COP), Vineyard Northeast will include 160 total wind turbine generators (WTG) and is projected to generate around 2.6 GW of electricity, with the potential to power over 900,000 homes. Status : Permits have been submitted to federal authorities in mid-2024 but have not yet been approved and are unlikely to be under the Trump administration. It is assumed that this project is delayed due to political uncertainty. Attentive Energy : In 2022, Attentive Energy participated in a bid for a lease area in the New York Bight, covering 132 square miles off the coast of New York and New Jersey. Attentive Energy, a joint venture between TotalEnergies , Corio Generation , and Rise Light & Power , decided to split the site into two projects: AE1 & AE2. In October 2023, the Attentive Energy One ( 1,400 MW ) project was selected in New York’s third competitive offshore wind solicitation, which was later canceled due to ”technical and commercial complexities between provisional awardees and their partners”. The company decided not to rebid in New York’s latest offshore wind solicitation. Attentive Energy 2 (AE2): A Project off the coast of New Jersey with a capacity of 1,342 MW . In January 2024, it was selected by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU). AE2 was set to move forward, with plans to continue development despite putting a pause on AE1 in New York due to potential political hurdles. The project was expected to be operational by 2031 but has been delayed for up to 4 years due to political uncertainties. Status : As of January 23 2025: Attentive Energy 2 have filed a 'Motion for Limited Stay' to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) asking for a year-long delay to pay required securities for the projects Commercial Operation Date (COD) commitment. The first payment, a deposit of USD 33.5 million, was due on 24 January 2025 alongside a USD 3.7 million payment with the state's Research and Monitoring Initiative (RMI). The reasons for this motion are cited as 'delays or uncertainty associated with common infrastructure'. Atlantic Shores South (Project 1 & 2): Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, LLC (ASOW) is a 50:50 partnership between Shell and EDF Renewables North America and its Lease Area is located approximately 10-20 miles off the coast of New Jersey between Atlantic City and Barnegat Light. ASOW owns three lease areas (Atlantic Shores North, Atlantic Shores South, & The New York Bite) totaling more than 400 square miles under active development. Atlantic Shores South Project 1 and 2 have a total capacity of up to 2,800 MW of clean, renewable energy that BOEM estimates could power close to one million homes each year. The projects are approximately 8.7 miles offshore New Jersey at its closest point. The approved COP includes up to 197 total positions for wind turbine generators, offshore substations, and a meteorological tower, with subsea transmission cables making landfall in Atlantic City and Sea Girt, New Jersey. Projects in the other two other lease areas are still in the planning phase and have not yet been approved. Status : In June of 2021, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities awarded Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind a contract to develop 1,510 MW in offshore wind energy, enough to power up to over 700,000 homes. On October 1st 2024, Atlantic Shores announced that it had received Construction and Operations Plan (COP) approvals from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) for Projects 1 and 2. Following the changing political landscape and executive orders barring new offshore wind leasing, Shell pulled out of the project and EDF booked a $980 million impairment. EDF says it still hopes to build the project but is silent on when. As of May 14th, 2025, a federal appeals board ordered that a crucial air quality permit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued in October under the Biden Administration to be revoked, sending it back to the agency for further consideration. South Coast Wind 1 & 2 : OW Ocean Winds plans to build South Coast Wind 1 (formerly Mayflower Wind) which will deliver approximately 1,200 MW via an electric grid connection at Brayton Point/Somerset, Massachusetts in the late 2020s. The project area covers approximately 127,388 acres and is about 26 nautical miles (nm) south of Martha’s Vineyard and 20 nm south of Nantucket, Massachusetts. The approved COP includes the construction of up to 141 wind turbine generators and up to five offshore substation platforms located at a maximum of 143 positions, and up to eight offshore export cables located in up to two corridors, potentially making landfall in Brayton Point or Falmouth, Massachusetts. SouthCoast Wind is also looking at Brayton Point for interconnection of the second 1,200 MW of electricity generated in the lease area from South Coast Wind 2 . Falmouth, MA continues to remain an option for this second phase while grid capacity and timing of necessary upgrades are determined. Status : On January 17, 2025, BOEM announced the approval of the SouthCoast Wind Project Construction and Operations Plan (COP). The lease area has the potential to generate up to 2,400 MW of renewable energy for New England and power over 840,000 homes. EDPR and Engie recently booked an impairment of $139 million each and said the construction could be pushed back by up to 4 years from 2025 to 2029. They expect a delay due to the current administration and took a write-down on the asset to reflect the possibility of a four-year delay. Leading Light Wind : The Leading Light Wind project, a 2.4 GW offshore wind farm proposed by Invenergy and energyRe around 40 miles off the coast of New Jersey, is facing significant delays due to ongoing volatility in the wind turbine equipment market. Initially selected by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) in January 2024, the project encountered setbacks when its planned turbine supplier, GE Vernova , ceased production of the intended 18 MW turbines. Subsequent negotiations with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy resulted in substantial cost increases, and Vestas was deemed unsuitable, leaving Invenergy without a viable supplier. Status : Invenergy has requested multiple delays from the NJBPU, extending the project's contract pause to May 20, 2025, to navigate these challenges. The project was originally scheduled to begin construction in 2028 and operations in 2032 but this timeline is subject to change. Despite facing challenges, Invenergy remains committed to the project, emphasizing its potential environmental and economic benefits for New Jersey. Temporarily Cancelled Projects: Ten projects representing 9.6 GW of renewable electricity. While not all of these projects have been officially terminated, many require restructuring due to changes in market conditions, likely resulting in significant delays. Ocean Wind 1 and 2 : Ocean Wind 1 ( 1,100 MW ) and Ocean Wind 2 ( 1,148 MW ) were planned to be built off the coast of New Jersey totaling 2.2 GW of potential generation. In late 2023, Ørsted decided to cease the development of Ocean Wind 1 and 2. The projects experienced significant impacts from macroeconomic factors, including high inflation, rising interest rates and supply chain constraints, particularly a vessel delay on Ocean Wind 1 that considerably impacted project timing. The company intends to retain the seabed lease area and consider the best options as part of the ongoing portfolio review. Ørsted agreed to pay New Jersey $125 million to settle claims over the company's cancellation of the two offshore wind farm projects. Skipjack Wind 1 & 2 : The Skipjack Wind project, a 966 MW offshore wind project, was planned to be Maryland's first offshore wind project, located off the coast of the Delmarva Peninsula. In January 2024, Ørsted terminated its offtake agreement with the State of Maryland for the project, citing challenging market conditions (inflation, high-interest rates, and supply chain constraints). While Ørsted terminated the offtake agreement, they stated that they will continue advancing development and permitting for the project, including submitting an updated Construction and Operations plan to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). They also plan to reposition the project for future offtake opportunities. This decision came shortly after Ørsted cancelled its Ocean Wind projects in New Jersey. Vineyard 2 : A proposed 1,200 MW offshore wind project that could have powered 650,000 New England homes. While Massachusetts had agreed to buy 800 MW, the project's full viability depended on Connecticut's participation. The project is no longer moving forward in its original form because Connecticut declined to purchase the remaining 400 MW needed to complete the project, opting for solar and storage projects instead. Consequently, Vineyard Offshore withdrew from contract negotiations, as they couldn't secure the full 1,200 MW. Attentive Energy 1, Community Offshore Wind, and Excelsior Wind: In April 2024, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority ( NYSERDA ) cancelled three offshore wind projects, that had received provisional awards in October 2023, due to "technical and commercial complexities" and a change in turbine design by GE Vernova . A key factor in the cancellations was GE's decision to halt development of an 18-MW variant of its Haliade-X turbine, which the projects were planned to use. They decided to shift their focus to smaller turbines (15.5/16.5 MW) which led to technical and commercial complexities, making the projects no longer viable. This shift to smaller turbines meant that developers would need to install more turbines to achieve the promised electricity output, which would increase project costs dramatically. These cancelled projects represent 4 GW of provisionally awarded capacity. Attentive Energy 1 (AE1) : A 1,400 MW project set to deliver clean electricity to New York. AE1 was cancelled by NYSERDA in April 2024 due to changes in turbine technology from the preferred provider GE Vernova, which significantly impacted the cost and feasibility of the projects. NYSERDA launched New York's fifth competitive offshore wind solicitation (ORECRFP24-1) on July 17, 2024. Attentive Energy rebid the project but later withdrew. Attentive Energy cited the need to continue evaluating market conditions and future opportunities, while remaining committed to deploying offshore wind and contributing to regional goals. -AE’s statement from October 21, 2024: “Attentive Energy has decided to withdraw its bid from New York State’s fifth solicitation for offshore wind projects. Attentive Energy commends the State’s steadfast support of offshore wind and will continue to evaluate market conditions and future opportunities as they arise. As Attentive Energy continues to advance opportunities from our lease area, we remain committed to deploying offshore wind and contributing toward our region’s shared economic and environmental goals.” Community Offshore Wind : RWE and National Grid have partnered to jointly develop offshore wind projects in the Northeast U.S. As of October 18, 2024, Community Offshore Wind submitted their full proposal to provide clean offshore wind energy for the State of New York. The proposed project could deliver up to 2.8 GW of renewable energy, built in two phases in the developer’s federal offshore wind lease area in the New York Bight. 1,314 MW was planned to be developed in the first phase but was cancelled by NYSERDA. Excelsior Wind : Vineyard Offshore (owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners) plans to build a 1,350 MW project in the New York Bite, approximately 24 miles off the coast of Long Island. The wind farm would deliver enough electricity to power more than 700,000 New York homes. BOEM began an environmental review for Vineyard Mid-Atlantic where the project is located in January 2025. However, President Trump's memorandum pausing offshore wind activities led to the cancellation of scheduled public meetings, effectively halting the review process. Empire Wind 2 : Equinor and bp terminated the Empire Wind 2 project, a 1,260 MW offshore wind farm, citing increased costs, supply chain disruptions, and changing commercial conditions. The companies stated that inflation, interest rates, and supply chain disruptions made the project's existing Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate (OREC) agreement no longer viable. The cancellation also included the termination of contracts for an offshore substation platform and scour rock installation. The project, previously a joint venture between Equinor and BP, has been reset, and the OREC agreement has been terminated. Equinor now holds full ownership of the Empire Wind projects (including Empire Wind 1 and 2), while BP has taken full ownership of Beacon Wind, which is still in the development process. Ice Breaker Wind (Great Lakes Pilot Project): The 20 MW project, spearheaded by the Lake Erie Energy Development Corporation (LEEDCo), aimed to install six wind turbines about eight miles off the Cleveland shoreline to test the feasibility of offshore wind power in the Great Lakes. I ntended to be the first freshwater offshore wind farm in North America on Lake Erie, was put on hold indefinitely in December 2023 due to rising costs, challenges, and delays, despite having obtained all necessary permits. LEEDCo remains open to the possibility of partnering with another developer to take over the project, and board members remain optimistic that the project will come to fruition in Cleveland. Resources: Stay up to date on the status of ongoing offshore wind projects in the U.S. Offshore Wind Power Hub : tracks offshore wind policies, projects, and lease areas in the United States, and provides a platform for advocates and policymakers to collaborate and share resources. Check out this interactive map to see all of the ongoing projects in the U.S. Northeast Ocean Data Portal : provides free, user-friendly access to expert-reviewed interactive maps and data on the ocean ecosystem, economy, and culture of the northeastern United States. 4C Offshore (TGS) Offshore Wind Database : 4C Offshore marine intelligence software provides exclusive access to a range of specialized services including the Offshore Substation Database, offline databases, reports, newsletters, online tools and more. You will need Full access to use the 4C Offshore interactive system, access reports, updates, news, and downloads. BOEM Offshore Renewable Activities : Search by state or project for information on U.S. offshore wind projects or use the interactive map. Previous Next

< Back Meet Charybdis: America's First Domestic Wind Turbine Installation Vessel February 7, 2025 The Charybdis, the United States' first domestically built wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV), represents a landmark $715 million investment in the future of American energy independence. This cutting-edge vessel, built at Seatrium AmFELS, Inc. shipyard in Brownsville, Texas, is poised to strengthen the U.S. offshore wind industry and pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future. While the cost of this pioneering vessel has increased from initial estimates (around $500 million), this reflects the complexities of developing a brand-new industry and incorporating the latest technological advancements. The Charybdis' final design incorporates crucial modifications to handle the newest generation of wind turbines, ensuring its long-term viability and maximizing its contribution to U.S. energy goals. This investment in advanced technology will ultimately pay dividends in increased efficiency and performance. The 472-foot Charybdis is a critical component of Dominion Energy 's ambitious Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project. As a Jones Act-compliant vessel, it plays a vital role in strengthening domestic shipbuilding and maritime industries. This compliance ensures that American jobs and expertise are at the forefront of this burgeoning sector. Although the Charybdis project has faced some delays, these are typical of complex, first-of-their-kind endeavors. The project is now nearing completion, with delivery expected sometime in 2025. This timeline reflects a commitment to quality and precision, ensuring the vessel's reliability and safety for years to come. The Charybdis offers significant advantages to the U.S. offshore wind industry. Its Jones Act compliance streamlines installation processes, eliminating the need for feeder vessels and mitigating weather-related delays. This translates to greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the long run. Moreover, a U.S.-flagged WTIV reduces reliance on foreign vessels, securing America's energy future and fostering domestic expertise. The CVOW project, now well underway (recently reaching 50% completion), is a testament to the potential of offshore wind to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. The Charybdis project alone generated over 1,200 jobs at its peak, and the CVOW project is creating thousands more in Virginia. This investment in clean energy is an investment in American communities and the American workforce. Dominion's commitment to the CVOW project, even with the increased costs and political headwinds, demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to energy development. The company recognizes the long-term benefits of offshore wind and is willing to invest in the infrastructure necessary to make it a reality. The anticipated modest increase in customer bills (around 43 cents per month) underscores the company's commitment to balancing affordability with sustainability. “Charybdis is vital not only to CVOW but also to the growth of the offshore wind industry along the U.S. East Coast and is key to the continued development of a domestic supply chain by providing a homegrown solution for the installation of offshore wind turbines,” said Bob Blue, Dominion Energy's chair, president and chief executive officer. The Charybdis is more than just a ship; it's a symbol of American ingenuity and a commitment to a cleaner energy future. Its launch and upcoming sea trials mark a pivotal moment in the development of a robust domestic offshore wind industry. This vessel, and the projects it will support, represent a significant stride towards U.S. energy independence and a more sustainable future. Sources Marine Link, Work Boat, & Marine Insight Previous Next

< Back Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project Continues Amidst Industry Headwinds January 27, 2025 The recent executive order temporarily halting new federal wind leases has created uncertainty within the US offshore wind industry. While this pause may impact future projects, the construction of the $9.8 billion Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project continues to progress. Dominion Energy , the developer of CVOW, remains confident in the completion of this 2.6 GW project, which is scheduled to be operational in 2026 and capable of powering 660,000 homes. As of November 2024, half of the monopile foundations for the 174 turbines had been installed roughly 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach. Recent developments include the departure of a heavy load carrier from the Port of Aalborg, Denmark, carrying 18 transition pieces for CVOW. This shipment, delivered by CS WIND Offshore , brings the total number of delivered transition pieces to 69. Despite challenging weather conditions, the loading operation was successfully completed, and the vessel is now in route to the US for installation by DEME Group . While Dominion emphasizes the long-term bipartisan support for Virginia's clean energy transition, the future of its other offshore wind leases, planned for development in the 2030s, remains uncertain due to the ongoing federal review of wind energy policies. The company secured a 176,000-acre lease adjacent to its existing CVOW project for $17.6 million in a federal auction last year. Additionally, they acquired Kitty Hawk North Wind, a 40,000-acre lease off the Outer Banks, from Avangrid Renewables for $160 million. Neither of these newly acquired leases have received the necessary federal permits for development, making their estimated cost and timeline currently unknown. Dominion has also implemented risk mitigation strategies, such as selling a stake in the CVOW project, to navigate potential challenges. Credit: Virginia Business Previous Next

< Back Offshore Wind: The Only Practical Solution to Meeting New York’s Growing Electricity Demands June 5, 2025 A new report from Aurora Energy Research , commissioned by the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACENY), concluded that offshore wind is the only viable near-term solution to address downstate New York's escalating energy reliability concerns. This finding is particularly urgent as the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) projects potential electricity shortfalls in New York City as early as this year. The urgency is underscored by a variety of factors straining the energy system in New York City and Long Island. These downstate regions face rising reliability challenges driven by significant transmission constraints, which make importing sufficient generation difficult and costly to expand. Compounding this, New York’s peak demand is forecasted to grow quickly, largely due to increased electrification, with winter demand seeing particularly sharp increases. Furthermore, tightening capacity margins are a critical concern; NYISO has estimated that New York City could experience a deficit of up to 461 MW for several hours in 2025 if the planned retirements of older, fossil fuel-fired generators proceed, highlighting an immediate need for new, local power sources. Finding enough land for new power sources in downstate New York is a major hurdle. This scarcity not only limits how much new energy infrastructure can be built but also significantly drives up construction costs. In fact, Aurora estimates it's about 1.4 times more expensive to build new energy projects in downstate regions compared to upstate. Offshore wind neatly avoids this problem because its power generation facilities are located out at sea, with minimal land use on the coast. This is a huge advantage for densely populated areas like New York City (Zone J) and Long Island (Zone K). Aurora's long-term modeling shows that New York will need approximately 15 GW of offshore wind by 2040. If the state tried to get the same amount of power from solar, it would need around 520 square miles of land. For land-based wind power, it would be about 680 square miles. Even if New York City tried to generate the needed electricity with traditional sources, it would still require developing 15 square miles of land (roughly 1,750 Manhattan city blocks). The report also notes that alternatives to offshore wind face significant challenges other than land use. For instance, developing new natural gas power plants (thermal generation) is severely hampered by shortages in essential components like gas turbines, leading to long project lead times that can extend up to eight years. This bottleneck is intensified by surging global demand for these turbines; GE Vernova , one of the world's largest manufacturers, reported a 90% increase in orders between 2023 and 2024, directly contributing to these extended timelines. Meanwhile, other potential zero-emission technologies, such as small modular nuclear reactors or hydrogen-fuel peaking plants, have not yet reached the commercial scale required to make a significant impact in the near term. Offshore wind is uniquely positioned to meet this growing demand. According to Aurora, it is the only net-new generation capacity currently in the queue for New York that can realistically add supply within this decade. To interconnect into the NYISO grid, projects are required to enter the interconnection queue (ICQ). Clearing the queue takes several years, giving an indication of all capacity likely to come online in the next ~4 years. While 1.8 GW of battery storage (BESS) and 1.3 GW of transmission could be online by 2027, offshore wind is the only net new generation capacity in the queue for downstate NY. "Offshore wind is poised to provide much needed relief to the tightening NYISO system," said Julia Hoos, Head of USA East at Aurora Energy Research. "Without offshore wind, we find that New York becomes increasingly dependent on importing power from its neighbors in New England and the Mid-Atlantic — and those regions face tight conditions at exactly the same time. Offshore wind can help alleviate this pressure and shelter New Yorkers from high energy prices associated with cold winters and fluctuating gas prices.” Key benefits of offshore wind highlighted in the report include: Enhanced Energy Independence: Developing in-state offshore wind reduces reliance on imports, particularly during peak winter periods when neighboring regions also face high demand. Consumer Cost Savings: Aurora estimates that if the Empire Wind 1, Sunrise Wind, and South Fork Wind projects had been operational during a single cold, high-cost month in 2022, New Yorkers could have saved $77 million in electricity costs. These savings are projected to be even higher in future winters. Land-Use Efficiency: To meet New York’s energy goals, approximately 15 GW of offshore wind would be needed by 2040. Generating the equivalent with solar or land-based wind would require over 600 square miles of land, a significant challenge in space-constrained downstate New York. Meeting Climate Goals: Offshore wind deployment is crucial for decarbonization, potentially leading to a decrease in the social cost of carbon by up to $1 billion in annual savings by 2040. Overall, the evidence strongly indicates that offshore wind is uniquely positioned to address New York's burgeoning energy demands in the most economically sound way. It stands out as the optimal path forward to maintain affordable energy prices, especially during challenging winter months, while simultaneously bolstering grid reliability and advancing the state's energy independence. With mounting pressure on the existing energy infrastructure and a scarcity of viable alternatives, the findings of the Aurora report underscore that investing in offshore wind is not just a timely and practical decision, but an essential one for securing New York’s energy future. Check out the full report by Aurora Energy Research here: Meeting New York’s Energy Needs: Reliability & Offshore Wind Previous Next

< Back Offshore Wind's Scaling Debate: Power, Progress, and Potential Pitfalls April 9, 2025 The offshore wind industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in technological advancement, characterized by a global "arms race" to develop the most powerful and efficient turbines. This drive for upscaling is fueled by the urgent need to meet ambitious renewable energy targets, but it also raises critical questions about the industry's long-term sustainability. A Race for Power The sheer scale of innovation is astounding. Companies like Mingyang Smart Energy are pushing the boundaries of what's possible, with their unveiling of the MySE 22 MW turbine. This giant, boasting a 22-MW rated capacity and a rotor diameter exceeding 310 meters, represents a significant leap forward in wind energy generation. Simultaneously, established players like Siemens Gamesa are actively testing their own high-capacity prototypes, such as the 21.5-MW turbine being trialed in Denmark. This intense competition is driving rapid technological evolution, with each new turbine promising greater efficiency and energy output. The Economic Drivers The appeal of these colossal turbines is undeniable. Their potential to significantly reduce costs is a major catalyst. By requiring fewer installations to achieve the same energy output, developers can save on foundation, cable, and installation expenses. Furthermore, reduced maintenance needs contribute to lower operational costs. This can potentially help developers win bids for their electricity as they are able to produce it at a lower cost. Mingyang has claimed that compared to using 13-MW turbines, its new 22-MW model would reduce the number of turbines needed for a 1-GW offshore wind farm by 18 units, significantly reducing capital expenditure. Figure from “Scaling the Offshore Wind Industry and Optimizing Turbine Size” by NREL The Overall Benefits to Upscaling Increased Energy Output: -Larger turbines can capture more wind energy due to their larger rotor swept areas. -Taller turbines access stronger and more consistent wind speeds, leading to higher capacity factors. Reduced Costs: -Fewer turbines are required to achieve the same energy output, reducing the number of foundations, cables, and other infrastructure components. -This leads to lower installation, maintenance, and operational costs. -Economies of scale in manufacturing can further drive down the cost of energy. Improved Efficiency : -Larger turbines can optimize energy capture and conversion, leading to higher overall efficiency. -Fewer turbines in a wind farm can reduce wake effects, allowing for more efficient use of the available wind resource. Optimized Resource Utilization: -Larger turbines allow for more energy to be generated from a set lease area. -Wider turbine spacing can reduce navigational concerns, and reduce the sea bed foot print. Driving Innovation : -The push for larger turbines stimulates innovation in materials, manufacturing, and design, leading to potential advancements in other industries. Navigating the Challenges This rapid pursuit of larger turbines presents a complex set of challenges. Concerns are growing about the technological maturity of these massive structures. The risk of premature deployment and potential future failures cannot be ignored. Moreover, the increased size of these turbines necessitates significant infrastructure upgrades, including larger ports and specialized vessels, potentially rendering existing facilities obsolete. Supply chain constraints are another critical consideration. The surge in demand for larger components could lead to delays and cost increases. Furthermore, the structural integrity of these increasingly massive turbines is a paramount concern, requiring robust designs and advanced materials. A significant point of discussion is the impact that this rapid technological advancement is having on the industrialization and optimization of the offshore wind industry. There are concerns that the speed of the turbine upscaling, is outpacing the ability for the industry to optimize installation, and maintenance procedures. In addition, the EU is now voicing concern over the competitive nature of the Chinese turbine production, and the effect that it could have on the European market. The Main Arguments Against Further Upscaling Technical & Engineering Challenges : -Structural Integrity: Ensuring the stability and durability of these massive structures in harsh offshore environments is a significant engineering hurdle. As turbines grow in size, they experience increased loads, potentially leading to structural fatigue and failures. -Floating Platform Design: Developing stable and efficient floating platforms for these larger turbines, especially in deeper waters, presents complex hydrodynamic challenges. -Technological Maturity: The rapid pace of development may outstrip the industry's ability to thoroughly test and validate these new technologies, increasing the risk of premature failures. Logistical & Supply Chain Concerns: -Infrastructure Demands: Larger turbines require significant port upgrades and specialized vessels for transportation and installation, potentially straining existing infrastructure. -Supply Chain Constraints: The increased demand for massive components like blades and towers can lead to supply chain bottlenecks, delays, and rising costs. -Transportation Challenges: Moving very large components from manufacturing sites to ports, and then out to sea, presents very large logistical problems. Economic & Industry Impact: -Increased Costs: While upscaling aims to reduce costs in the long term, the initial investment in research, development, and infrastructure upgrades can be substantial. -Obsolete technology: Previous generations of wind turbines, and the infrastructure that supports them, can become obsolete very quickly, creating large amounts of stranded assets. Social Considerations: -Visual Impact: Larger turbines can have a greater visual impact on coastal landscapes, potentially leading to public opposition. A Call for Balance The offshore wind industry finds itself at a crucial juncture. While the potential benefits of upscaling are undeniable, a balanced approach is essential. The industry must prioritize technological reliability, supply chain resilience, and infrastructure development. Careful consideration of the long-term implications of these advancements is vital to ensure the sustainable growth of offshore wind energy. While some countries like China have the infrastructure capabilities to develop exceedingly larger turbines, other regions like the U.S. are limited by a variety of factors such as port availability and government policy. For example, the Jones Act requires the use of domestic vessels for offshore projects, necessitating billions of dollars in investment in port and vessel upgrades to accommodate larger turbines. A variety of turbine scales will likely be needed to supply the global market with options that are most suitable for their infrastructure and supply chain. The current drive towards larger offshore wind turbines underscores the industry's commitment to maximizing renewable energy generation and reducing costs. The economic incentives for upscaling, particularly the potential for lower levelized cost of energy and more efficient utilization of offshore resources, are significant drivers. However, this rapid technological progression necessitates careful consideration of associated challenges, including ensuring the robustness and reliability of these advanced machines, adapting existing infrastructure and supply chains, and managing potential market disruptions. Recognizing that different regions possess varying infrastructure capabilities and policy frameworks, a diversified approach that strategically deploys a range of turbine scales may prove to be the most pragmatic and effective pathway to realizing the full global potential of offshore wind power. For a more in-depth conversation, check out this webinar about offshore wind turbine scaling by NYSERDA with Walt Musial from National Renewable Energy Laboratory Previous Next