Equinor has hired urban planning advisory firm Karp Strategies to support the former in fulfilling its $47m commitment to community benefits in the US from its offshore wind activities.
The first focus of the partnership will be New York, where Equinor won the state’s bid with its Empire Wind and Beacon Wind developments.
Karp Strategies 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 Wind US head of public affairs David Marks said: “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.”
Karp Strategies will support Equinor’s implementation of a community-economic development strategy and stakeholder engagement in Sunset Park, Brooklyn and Albany’s Capital Region surrounding the developer’s investments in the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal and Port of Albany, respectively.