Avangrid and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners have achieved a milestone with their Vineyard Wind 1 project, now operational off the coast of Massachusetts as the largest offshore wind farm in the United States. Currently delivering over 136MW to the grid, the project features 10 turbines and is set to expand significantly.
Pedro Azagra, Avangrid's chief executive, highlighted the project's impact, stating, “With 10 turbines now in operation, Avangrid is delivering enough clean energy to power more than 60,000 homes and businesses in Massachusetts.”
Vineyard Wind 1, once fully completed, is expected to generate 806MW, sufficient to power 400,000 homes and businesses in New England. The project, which began offshore construction in late 2022, has already installed 47 foundations and transition pieces, along with 21 turbines. Installation of additional turbines is currently underway.
The offshore wind farm is strategically located to meet the region's energy needs, particularly during peak demand periods in winter. It interconnects to the New England grid via underground cables, transmitting power from Barnstable to a substation on Cape Cod.
The project's development has also contributed significantly to local economies, creating nearly 937 union jobs during its construction phase, surpassing initial commitments outlined in the project labor agreement signed in July 2021.
