Biden-Harris Govt Okays US’ First Major Offshore Wind Project

In a major milestone that will propel America’s drive toward a clean energy future, the US Government has provided its consent for the construction and operation of the country’s first large-scale, offshore wind project i.e. 800 MW Vineyard wind energy project.

The project is expected to contribute to the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of generating 30 GW of energy from offshore wind by 2030. The Vineyard project is likely to add 3,600 jobs and power 400,000 homes and businesses.

Speaking on the development, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, said “a clean energy future is within our grasp in the United States. The approval of this project is an important step toward advancing the Administration’s goals to create good-paying union jobs while combatting climate change and powering our nation.”

“Today is one of many actions we are determined to take to open the doors of economic opportunity to more Americans,” Haaland added.

Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, said “this project is an example of the investments we need to achieve the Biden-Harris administration’s ambitious climate goals, and I’m proud to be part of the team leading the charge on offshore wind.” 

In its first four months, the Biden-Harris administration has catalyzed the offshore wind industry by announcing the first ever national offshore wind energy mandate, creating a roadmap for the future of this innovative industry.

Building the offshore wind supply chain can feed steel mills in West Virginia, support ship building in Texas, and wind turbine manufacturing in both inland areas and on the coasts.

The move has granted Vineyard Wind final federal approval to install 84 or fewer turbines off Massachusetts as part of an 800 MW offshore wind energy facility.

Prior to construction, Vineyard Wind must submit a facility design report and a fabrication and installation report. These engineering and technical reports provide specific details for how the facility will be fabricated and installed in accordance with the approved Construction and Operations Plan.

Besides, the US Department of the Interior has initiated the environmental review of 2 other offshore wind projects, and pursued additional leasing opportunities in the New York Bight.