Sunrise Wind, a 924-megawatt offshore wind project created by Ørsted, has begun construction in New York, as announced by Governor Hochul on Wednesday. When completed, the project is expected to generate enough sustainable energy to power around 600,000 New York homes.
Months after South Fork Wind went operational, the far larger Sunrise Wind will feature 84 turbines generating 924 megawatts, making it the nation’s largest wind farm. The Governor also announced the release of the state’s fifth offshore wind solicitation to promote the next wave of renewable energy development projects off its coast, with final bids due on September 9, 2024.
“We’re growing New York’s green economy, building clean energy, and expanding economic opportunities for all New Yorkers,” Hochul said in a statement. “By breaking ground on Sunrise Wind and advancing the next wave of offshore wind projects, New York is passing a tremendous milestone to combat climate change. These projects will create good-paying union jobs and demonstrate that New York is leading the nation to build the offshore wind industry.
The largest offshore windfarm in the country will be built beneath at Smith Point Park in Suffolk County, some 30 miles east of Montauk. The goal is to generate 800 direct union employment and $700 million in economic gain. Ørsted also plans to build a national offshore wind training center on Long Island, as well as a fund to compensate commercial fishermen for any losses incurred during development.
“Sunrise Wind builds on the momentum from South Fork Wind as we deliver jobs, economic development, and clean power for hundreds of thousands of New York homes and businesses”, Group EVP and CEO Americas at Ørsted David Hardy said.
The project is estimated to increase Long Island consumers’ power rates by $1 to $2 per month, which will be offset by price savings once the plant is operational, according to authorities.
