US Congressman Max Rose has called on New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to support plans for an offshore wind staging hub at Arthur Kill Terminal, on Staten Island.
“The Arthur Kill Terminal is the most suitable site in New York for offshore wind development, and with your support will not only spur regional economic growth, but also a more reliable energy for New Yorkers,” wrote Rose in a letter to Cuomo.
“Under your leadership, New York has committed to leading the nation in developing offshore wind energy, a necessary step in diversifying our energy sources and moving toward a more resilient economy. However, states such as Connecticut, New Jersey and Virginia are also competing for similar investments, so it is critical that we act expeditiously to develop an offshore wind supply chain based in New York through the Arthur Kill Terminal port project.”
Atlantic Offshore Terminals responded to New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) request for qualifications in October 2019, with a plan to transform Arthur Kill Terminal into a staging port.
NYSERDA and other state agencies are committing to invest $200m in public investments in port infrastructure improvements.
A competitive solicitation will be held in the first quarter of 2020, with awards expected to be announced this summer.
According to Rose, successful development of the Arthur Kill Terminal would provide critical support for the offshore wind industry and create hundreds of jobs and revenue for Staten Islanders and their businesses. The project is estimated to contribute $410 million in gross regional product through contracts with regional subcontractors and would provide good-paying union jobs.
New York City Central Labor Council president Vincent Alvarez added: “Built under a project labour agreement, the Arthur Kill Terminal would create hundreds of solid, local middle-class jobs with benefits.
“That will set the stage for thousands of family-sustaining careers in the offshore wind supply industry throughout the region. With this project, New York has the chance to firmly seize the immense economic opportunity offered by the burgeoning offshore wind industry through smart, forward-thinking investments.”
Rose said “Staten Island officials like Senator Savino have also expressed their support for the project, and New York State has committed to investing over $1.5bn in renewable energy and offshore wind projects, in order that the future of this industry be based in New York.
“Staten Island is ideally positioned to capitalise on this opportunity, and I hope to work with you to advance this project.”