New Jersey utility regulators have granted preliminary approval to two new wind farm projects. This decision follows the withdrawal of the world’s largest offshore wind, Danish renewable energy developer Ørsted from two projects off the New Jersey coast last fall.
Offshore Expansion for a Clearer View
The state Board of Public Utilities chose the projects named Leading Light Wind and Attentive Energy, emphasizing their commitment to propel the state’s clean energy agenda. Notably, these projects will be considerably farther offshore, addressing concerns raised by onshore communities about the visual impact on the horizon from the beach.
Christine Guhl-Sadovy, the board’s president, mentioned that the combined capacity of both projects could power 1.8 million homes. However, companies earlier stated 1.6 million homes, creating a slight discrepancy.
Damian Bednarz, managing director of Attentive Energy, assured that their project, located 42 miles off Seaside Heights, would not be visible from the shoreline. He confidently stated, “We are over the curvature of the Earth.”
Renewed Commitment Amidst Challenges
Despite setbacks last fall, Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, expressed enthusiasm about the recent approvals. He stated, “As of today, New Jersey and Gov. (Phil) Murphy are back on our front foot in terms of offshore wind.”
These projects join the previously approved Atlantic Shores, bringing the state’s total of preliminarily approved offshore wind projects to three.
Project Details and Economic Impact
The selected projects include Leading Light Wind, a collaboration between Invenergy and energyRE, to be built 40 miles off Long Beach Island, and Attentive Energy, providing electricity for 600,000 homes. The board estimates the cost impact on bills, with higher charges taking effect in 2031 and 2032 when the projects contribute to the electrical grid.
Leading Light Wind aims to provide 200,000 low-income households, and mitigating the impact on their monthly bills.
Environmental Groups Applaud, Some Voice Concerns
Environmental and business groups welcomed the decision as a significant step towards clean energy transition. However, groups like Clean Ocean Action criticized the move, deeming it irresponsible and reckless, putting the ocean at risk.
As New Jersey forges ahead in its offshore wind endeavors, the state plans to seek additional wind farm proposals in the first half of this year.
Source: Abc News
