An alliance between EDF Renewables and Shell has acquired a lease area off New Jersey from developer US Wind that has the potential for a 2.5GW offshore wind project.
The partners, which have named the venture Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, said the site off Atlantic City has “steady wind resources in relatively shallow water”.
Work will begin shortly on a site assessment plan followed by formal development work. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals.
EDF Renewables and Shell believe a project could be operational off New Jersey by the mid-2020s, subject to a final investment decision.
“Shell has bold ambitions to grow our renewable power business and we see great potential in US offshore wind,” said vine president of wind division Dorine Bosman.
“Gaining access to this acreage in New Jersey complements our successful entry to Massachusetts and our existing renewable generation business.
“Building on the strength of our brand and global presence allows us to continue providing our customers with more and cleaner energy.”
EDF Renewables North America chief executive Tristan Grimbert said: “The opportunity supports the EDF Group’s aim to double global renewable capacity to 50GW by 2030.
“It solidifies EDF Renewables’ ambitions to leverage its depth of experience in the European offshore wind market in the emerging U.S. market.”
He added: “As the costs of offshore wind are declining, the US offshore wind industry is quickly advancing with strong Federal and State support.
“The industry is well-positioned to meaningfully contribute to the New York and New Jersey economies through employment and supply chain opportunities.”