Orsted has abandoned plans to build an interconnection facility for the 120MW Skipjack offshore wind farm at a site in Fenwick Island State Park in the US state of Delaware.
The Danish developer had entered into a non-binding memorandum of understanding with the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) to construct the link at the site in July 2019.
Following evaluations of the area proposed, Orsted has determined that a large portion of the site is comprised of undisturbed wetlands and so has informed DNREC that it will no longer pursue plans to build the interconnection in the areas as initially proposed.
Orsted mid-Atlantic market manager Brady Walker said the company hopes to make an announcement on an alternative interconnection site in the near future.
He said: “Constructing an interconnection facility on a site with such an extensive presence of undisturbed wetlands runs contrary to Orsted’s deeply-held commitment to building our business sustainably.
“The Skipjack wind farm will deliver significant environmental and economic benefits to the Delmarva region, from good-paying jobs to renewable energy for tens of thousands of homes.
“However, Orsted is committed to constructing the wind farm and associated infrastructure in a way that seeks to mitigate potential adverse impacts on local ecosystems and communities.
“We are grateful to DNREC leadership and staff for their diligent work and prolonged collaboration on this proposal.
“We know they share our commitment to protecting Delaware’s pristine wetlands.
“As Orsted pursues an alternative interconnection site, we look forward to continued discussions with DNREC and other stakeholders in the region to complete a project Delmarva residents can be proud of.”