Planning consultants Karp Strategies has been contracted by Equinor to support the offshore wind developer’s efforts across New York State and New England.
Karp Strategies will support Equinor in fulfilling its $47m (€39m) commitment to community benefits in New York and ensuring a just transition to renewable energy by centring community needs in the development process across its Northeast US portfolio.
The first focus of the partnership will be New York, where Equinor won the state’s bid for two of the largest renewable energy procurements in the US to date.
Karp will concentrate on Empire Wind, an 80,000-acre offshore wind development off the coast of Long Island and the Rockaways that will power one million New York homes.
Also under its remit is Beacon Wind, a 128,000-acre site between Montauk Point and Nantucket that will power more than one million homes across the Northeast.
Karp Strategies managing principal and chief executive Rebecca Karp said: “This is a pivotal moment for offshore wind in the US.
“At the dawn of a new industry, now is the time to ensure that we’re building the ecosystem in a way that works for the regional economy, lays the foundation for a local renewable energy supply chain, and positions New Yorkers and New Englanders to take advantage of the jobs and economic stimulus that these projects will provide.
“We look forward to partnering with Equinor, a global leader in this space, in positioning the Northeast US to reap the benefits of offshore wind for decades to come.
Equinor US’ head of public affairs David Marks added: “New York is positioned to become the hub of a thriving offshore wind industry in the US and Equinor is committed to centering communities at the heart of offshore wind development in New York State.
“Karp Strategies will provide critical support in making sure we execute an equity-driven community benefits plan that delivers for local residents and the region.”