Rhode Island has issued a 600MW offshore wind solicitation for the state.
The move forms part of Governor Gina Raimondo’s plan to meet 100% of the state’s electricity demand with renewable energy resources by 2030.
The solicitation will be developed by National Grid, with oversight by the state Office of Energy Resources, and is subject to approval by the Public Utilities Commission.
As of the second quarter of 2020, Rhode Island counted 933MW of renewable energy in its portfolio, representing a nine-fold increase since 2016, according to the Governor’s office.
Orsted and Eversource Energy’s JV Revolution Wind has already been selected to provide 400MW in Rhode Island’s first offshore wind solicitation.
Governor Raimondo (pictured) said: “In the face of global climate change, Rhode Island must drive toward a cleaner, more affordable and reliable clean energy future.
“It is critical that we accelerate our adoption of carbon-free resources to power our homes and businesses, while creating clean energy jobs.
“In January, I set a nation-leading goal for Rhode Island to meet 100% of its electricity demand with renewables by 2030.
“Offshore wind will help us achieve that bold, but achievable goal, while creating jobs and cementing our status as a major hub in the nation’s burgeoning offshore wind industry.”