Wind turbine maintenance provider GEV has opened its US headquarters in Rhode Island.
The new base will create around 125 jobs, comprising blade technicians, support staff and management.
The state governor Gina Raimondo said: “Rhode Island is a national leader in offshore wind, and I’m thrilled that GEV Wind Power is choosing our state for its US headquarters.
“As this industry continues to grow, we will keep working to ensure Rhode Island remains the economic epicenter of offshore wind in the United States.”
GEV US general manager Daniel Boon said: “We are truly excited about setting up our base in Rhode Island where Governor Raimondo and Commerce Secretary Pryor’s welcome party and support for the industry has been incredible.
“As we gear up, there will be a tangible opportunity for Rhode Islanders to come and talk to us about the options for an exciting career in wind energy and join what is becoming one of America’s fastest growing industries.”
Rhode Island is home to the first offshore wind farm in the US, Block Island, and the recently announced Revolution Wind project is expected to create more than 800 jobs clean energy jobs with the potential to power half the homes in Rhode Island.
Additionally, Orsted and Eversource, the companies behind Revolution Wind project, have pledged $4.5m (€3.95m) to support offshore wind education and supply chain development for the growing offshore wind industry in the state.
The Board of the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation also approved GEV Wind Power to receive tax credits under the Qualified Jobs Tax Credit programme for up to $1.93m over a 10-year period.
The company has committed to maintaining the jobs for at least 12 years.
Based on a third-party analysis, over the twelve-year period, Rhode Island is projected to realize a net increase of $3.5m in personal income, sales, and business corporation taxes resulting from the new hires.