US launches first offshore call

Massachusetts has launched a call for up to 800MW of offshore wind, the first large-scale procurement in the US.

Utilities National Grid, Eversource and Unitel today issued a request for proposals for 400MW, with an option for developers to bid up to double that amount.

The utilities will consider a larger-scale proposal if it is both superior to other bids and is likely to produce significantly more economic benefits to ratepayers.

Three development teams — Dong and Eversource, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Iberdrola subsidiary Avangrid, and Deepwater Wind – hold leases off Massachusetts and are expected to participate in the RFP.

Dong North America president Thomas Brostrom said: “We are eager to bring our expertise to help Massachusetts achieve its ambitious renewable energy goals.

“Dong Energy believes a project generating 400MW to 800MW will produce the lowest cost of electricity to Massachusetts residents and businesses,” he added.

Proponents must provide notice of intent to bid by 26 July and proposals are due by 20 December.

Projects are to be selected for negotiation in April 2018, with contracts to be executed and submitted for approval by 31 July the same year.

Massachusetts plans to add 1.6GW of offshore wind capacity by 2027. A second call for project proposals will be held in 2019.

Credit: Offshore wind proposals are due by 20 December (MorgueFile)