A scene like this could be visible in NY waters if Gov. Cuomo and supporter gets their wish.
The Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) recently voted to formally approve the development of New York’s first ever, and the nation’s largest, offshore wind farm, located off the east end of Long Island. The approved 90-MW, 15-turbine (6 MW/turbine) offshore wind farm will produce enough energy to power over 50,000 homes. LIPA cited that offshore wind was the most cost effective proposal to meet Long Island’s South Fork energy needs.
In his recent State of the State announcement, Governor Cuomo committed to building 2,400 megawatts (MW) of offshore wind power by 2030. The Administration will also release a master plan by the end of the year, mapping out the state’s intention to build offshore wind to scale, which is essential in ensuring the Governor meets his goal to power 50 percent of New York’s energy from renewables by 2030. The Governor also pledged his support for New York’s first, and the nation’s largest, offshore wind project off the east end of Long Island.
Local, state and national organizations hailed this project as an essential first step towards a bold, long-term, large scale offshore wind program for New York. Building off of LIPA’s historic vote today, groups also urged the LIPA Board of Directors to commit to an additional investment of at least 210 more megawatts of offshore wind in the upcoming Island Wide procurement. The decision, which is expected to happen in March of 2017, will help ensure Long Island becomes a regional hub for a new, clean energy industry, spurring thousands of jobs and economic development opportunities throughout the state.
In response to the announcement, New York elected officials and environmental, labor and business organizations provided the following comments:
“A comprehensive offshore wind program is vital to growing a clean-energy economy and combating climate change,” said New York Senator Todd Kaminsky. “With this offshore wind farm, New York will take its rightful place as the national leader in advancing renewable energy. I will continue to advocate for investments in renewable energy that lower carbon emissions and grow our clean-energy economy.”
“The Long Island Power Authority’s decision today once again puts New York in the leadership position on clean energy,” said New York Senator Phil Boyle. “I applaud LIPA for their landmark resolution and look forward to continue fighting for a healthier environment and protecting our citizens from the dangers of climate change.”
“Clean, renewable energy is the future of New York,” said New York State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. “Green energy sources, like offshore wind, not only will help satisfy the increased energy demand on the South Fork of Long Island, but it will also help grow our economy, create jobs, and safeguard the health and safety of all New Yorkers.”
“Offshore wind is an important piece of the puzzle as we transition to greener energy and a robust clean energy sector of our economy,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “This project will address the critical energy needs of the South Fork in the most economical way and at the same time, create new jobs and a new source of renewable energy in our region.”
“The Deepwater wind project is a giant step ahead in meeting the goal of the Town of East Hampton to become 100% renewable for its electricity needs by 2020,” said Larry Cantwell, Supervisor of the Town of East Hampton.
Filed Under: News, Offshore wind
