Community Offshore Wind, a joint venture between RWE and National Grid Ventures, has submitted its full proposal to deliver up to 2,800 MW of offshore wind power for New York State. The project would be developed in two phases within the company's federal offshore wind lease area in the New York Bight.
New York is working towards a goal of sourcing 70% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2030. Under the proposal, Community Offshore Wind plans to begin delivering power in 2030, with both phases of the project becoming fully operational by 2032. The project aims to help the state meet its clean energy goals, providing much-needed capacity to ensure grid reliability and build upon the growing offshore wind industry.
The large-scale project will utilize two interconnection points. One phase will connect at the ConEd Clean Energy Hub in Brooklyn's Vinegar Hill neighborhood, potentially linking to the New York Independent System Operator's coordinated transmission solution. Another phase will connect to the E.F. Barrett Power Station in Island Park, Long Island, providing a transition to clean energy while securing long-term tax revenue for the local community.
The project will also connect to infrastructure developed as part of the New York Transco's Propel NY Energy project, supporting job creation and reducing local emissions.
In addition to delivering renewable energy, Community Offshore Wind has made significant economic commitments. The project is expected to employ nearly 700 New Yorkers, generating up to $300 million in wages and driving approximately $3 billion in economic activity, including over $2 billion in direct in-state spending.
The project will prioritize building a diverse and equitable workforce, with a focus on union labor. At least 35% of direct jobs will be filled by workers from disadvantaged communities. To support this workforce development, the company has pledged $64 million for job training, pre-apprenticeship, and apprenticeship programs.
Doug Perkins, president and project director of Community Offshore Wind, highlighted the proposal's potential, saying: “This large-scale offshore wind proposal offers an exceptional opportunity for New York to dramatically expand its clean energy capacity while simultaneously creating new economic opportunities for families and workers across the state. Offshore wind is necessary to meet rising energy demand and enable New York's economic growth.”
Perkins also emphasized the project's role in supporting the state's energy transition, stating, “We are committed to working with NYSERDA to achieve Governor Hochul's nation-leading clean energy goals and maintain New York's leadership in offshore wind.”
