New York governor Andrew Cuomo has vetoed a liquefied natural gas import facility in the state, clearing the way for an offshore wind project proposed in the same area.
Cuomo (pictured) said security, environmental and economic risks outweigh the potential benefits of the Port Ambrose LNG project, planned in waters off Long Island’s south shore.
“This facility is right in the middle of an area that has been proposed for possible renewable energy and it would disrupt that plan and there was no thought as to how the two plans could coexist,” said Cuomo.
The New York Power Authority, Long Island Power Authority and Consolidated Edison together proposed a 700MW wind project south of Long Island,
Private developers have also expressed interest in pursuing offshore wind in the same location. The LNG project would have made up to 20% of the wind energy area unavailable.
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is in the process of identifying areas for leasing in preparation for an offshore wind commercial lease auction.
The LNG project, developed by Liberty Natural Gas, required approval from both Cuomo and New Jersey Governor Christie under the federal Deepwater Port Act.
Image: (Governor’s Office)
