Arrr! New Jersey be pushin' fer offshore wind, despite the scurvy contractor's retreat from the sea!
2023-11-17
Arrr! The lads and lasses of New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities be votin' on Friday to venture into the treacherous waters o' offshore wind infrastructure. Even though the mighty wind developer Orsted be turnin' tail, they be pushin' on. Aye, a brave bunch they be!
Despite the setback of Danish developer Orsted pulling out of New Jersey, the state is determined to move forward with its plans to support and grow the offshore wind industry. The state Board of Public Utilities has voted to seek bids for a transmission facility that will allow offshore wind projects to connect to the onshore electrical grid. This decision not only demonstrates the state's commitment to offshore wind but also its desire to become a leader in the industry on the East Coast.The board's president, Christine Guhl-Sadovy, emphasized that recent setbacks will not deter their commitment to offshore wind, as it is a vital economic development opportunity and plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change. The authorized solicitation of proposals for an energy transmission system aims to create an open-access facility that can collect offshore wind energy and deliver it to the state's transmission system.
The proposed transmission system will consist of concrete structures and empty pipes for power cables, all installed in a single construction effort to minimize environmental and community impacts. Eligible applicants include power transmission developers, owners, and offshore wind developers.
The board's decision came after Orsted declared the cancellation of its Ocean Wind I and II projects due to inflation, supply chain issues, and a failure to secure sufficient government subsidies. This decision had a significant impact on the offshore wind industry and sparked opposition from opponents who argue that the industry is unprofitable without substantial government support.
Despite the cancellations, numerous community groups celebrated Orsted's withdrawal and vowed to oppose other pending wind farms. However, the Southern New Jersey Development Council, a business group, reaffirmed its support for offshore wind projects, recognizing their potential for responsible environmental stewardship and economic revitalization.
Proposals for the transmission facility are due by April 3, further highlighting New Jersey's commitment to moving forward with offshore wind development.