Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the start of construction on New York's largest offshore wind project, Sunrise Wind. Developed by Ørsted, this 924 MW project is set to provide clean energy to approximately 600,000 homes upon completion.
At the groundbreaking ceremony held at the Boys and Girls Club of Bellport on Long Island, Governor Hochul emphasized the project's importance in combating climate change and generating economic growth. “We're growing New York's green economy, building clean energy, and expanding economic opportunities for all New Yorkers,” she stated.
The Sunrise Wind project will create over 800 direct jobs during its construction phase and is expected to bring substantial economic benefits, including a $700 million investment in Suffolk County. Located about 30 miles east of Montauk, the project will connect to the state's electricity grid via the Holbrook Substation in Brookhaven.
Having achieved all major federal and state permitting milestones, Sunrise Wind received approval from the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) on June 21, 2024.
NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris praised the project for its job creation and economic growth potential, while Ørsted's David Hardy highlighted its contribution to New York's clean energy targets. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand also commended the project for its transformative potential.
The project has garnered widespread support from various officials, including BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein, Empire State Development President Hope Knight, and local leaders. They emphasized its significance in advancing New York's clean energy goals and its positive impact on the local economy and job market.
The Sunrise Wind project marks a significant step in New York's pursuit of a sustainable and clean energy future.
Source: 4coffshore.com