Exciting developments are on the horizon for offshore wind energy in New England. The tri-state (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island) procurement for offshore wind, initially expected to be finalized this summer, will now be delayed until September 6th. This delay comes as leaders from the region carefully consider the impacts of nearly $400 million in federal funding, recently announced through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grid Innovation Program. This substantial investment is set to bolster offshore wind energy transmission, a critical component in bringing clean, reliable power to our communities.
At the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs (CRCJ), we commend the leadership shown by our state and regional partners. Their decision to integrate this significant federal funding reflects a commitment to maximizing the benefits of offshore wind energy for New England. This approach underscores the importance of collaboration between government, industry, labor, and nonprofit stakeholders to ensure that offshore wind projects deliver the greatest possible positive outcomes for our communities, families, and businesses.
The economic potential of offshore wind in our region is immense. Massachusetts, for example, estimates that developing just 1,600 megawatts of offshore wind could create nearly 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, providing much-needed economic opportunities across the state. With the tri-state procurement poised to bring several thousand additional megawatts of capacity online, the economic outlook for workers and their families across New England is brighter than ever.
Public support for offshore wind energy is strong across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Residents recognize that offshore wind not only has the potential to keep electricity affordable and reliable but also plays a crucial role in safeguarding our energy infrastructure. As the Biden-Harris administration works to strengthen the nation’s grid against potential failures, offshore wind projects stand out as a key solution. Analysis from the Union of Concerned Scientists indicates that these projects can significantly reduce the risk of blackouts, especially during the coldest months when energy demand is at its peak.
Moreover, offshore wind energy offers substantial financial benefits. A recent study commissioned by the Sierra Club and conducted by Synapse Energy Economics found that achieving the region’s shared goal of 9 GW of offshore wind by 2030 could reduce electricity bills for New England customers by up to $5 a month. This translates to an average annual savings of $630 million on electricity costs across the region.
Beyond the economic and reliability benefits, offshore wind will have a profound impact on public health, air quality, and the environment. By reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, we can mitigate the negative effects of climate change, protect our wildlife, and create a cleaner, healthier future for all.
As we await the final decision on the tri-state offshore wind procurement, we remain optimistic about the transformative impact this initiative will have on our region. We look forward to continued collaboration with our partners to ensure that New England leads the way in the transition to a clean energy future.
This blog post reflects our shared commitment to building a sustainable, resilient, and equitable energy future for New England.
