Massachusetts has adopted an energy bill that requires utilities to contract 1.6GW of offshore wind power by July 2027.
It is the first legislation of its kind that includes a carve-out for offshore wind at a scale necessary to create a viable market in the US, Dong Energy said.
Bill H.4568, signed today, is designed to address the state’s growing energy needs through increased efficiency measures, grid modernization and a shift to renewable sources of energy.
It requires utilities to enter into long-term contracts for both offshore wind and hydro projects.
Dong aims to develop a 1GW offshore wind farm, its first in North America, off the state´s coast. The developer secured a lease last year for an area about 15 miles off Martha´s Vineyard.
While there are several more steps in the regulatory process before construction can begin, a dedicated commitment for offshore wind is a critical step in the process, it said.
Massachusetts has some of the best offshore wind conditions in the world, according to the developer.
“The adoption of this legislation is a landmark moment for Massachusetts’ clean energy future and a victory for the Commonwealth’s residents and businesses,” Dong general manager for North America Thomas Brostrom said.
“This bill will allow the creation of a viable offshore wind energy industry here in Massachusetts, delivering cost effective clean energy, helping the state reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
The bill now needs to be signed by state governor Charlie Baker.
Image: Dong
