New York Seeks 800 MW Offshore Wind

Newly re-elected Governor Andrew M. Cuomo issued a comprehensive solicitation seeking 800 megawatts or more of new offshore wind projects for New York.

According to a press release issued by New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) he state's first offshore wind procurement is moving rapidly. Bids due to land in February 2019. Awards for projects will be made in spring 2019 in time to "take advantage of expiring federal tax credits".

This highly anticipated first offering kicks-off competition for New York State's first large-scale offshore wind development contracts, an initial step toward its goal of 2,400 megawatts of offshore wind by 2030 to combat climate change.

The solicitation accelerates New York's progress towards Governor Cuomo's mandate for 50 percent of the state's electricity to come from renewable sources by 2030 and significantly jump starts the emerging offshore wind industry in New York.

"This action is a watershed moment in New York's renewable energy development efforts as we work to establish a secure, reliable and cost-effective clean energy future," Governor Cuomo said. "New York will continue to combat climate change, investing in robust offshore wind development and clean energy that provides a path toward a greener and more sustainable future in our state and around the world."

"This solicitation for offshore wind projects advances our commitment to reach our aggressive clean energy goals," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "We are continuing to advance renewable energy developments across the state to ensure a cleaner and greener environment for future generations. New York is leading the way in our efforts to grow the industry and combat climate change."

This historic offering marks an important new chapter in New York's nation-leading offshore wind planning efforts, which have been conducted over three years and have included extensive stakeholder, agency, and public consultation along with detailed technical and financial analysis.

These planning efforts provided the basis for New York's Offshore Wind Master Plan, released in January of 2018, and the Public Service Commission's July 2018 Order Establishing the State's Offshore Wind Standard, which established the foundation for this important step forward.