Offshore wind power is rapidly expanding as a significant player in the renewable energy sector, with various projects cropping up worldwide to utilize the wind’s energy potential. Recently, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority approved the construction of the Unique York offshore Dawn Wind project, marking a groundbreaking development. This ambitious initiative aims to leverage the offshore wind resources near New York, offering clean and sustainable energy solutions for the state’s inhabitants. As the construction phase is about to commence, the Unique York offshore Dawn Wind project is poised to revolutionize the state’s energy landscape and propel it towards a more environmentally friendly future.
The construction of the 924-MW project is expected to be completed by 2026, according to developers Ørsted and Eversource Energy. The project’s lease area is located approximately 16.4 miles south of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, 26.5 miles east of Montauk, New York, and 14.5 miles from Block Island off the coast of Rhode Island.
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has granted approval for the construction and operation plan of the Dawn Wind project, a proposed 924-MW offshore wind facility that will supply power to New York once operational. This approval signifies the final authorization required to kickstart the offshore construction phase. Developed by Ørsted and Eversource Energy, the Dawn Wind project is expected to commence operations in 2026.
The completed project will comprise up to 84 wind turbines capable of powering over 320,000 homes annually, according to BOEM. Positioned south of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts and east of Montauk, New York, the project holds immense potential for clean energy generation. The project received the final Record of Decision from BOEM in March, concluding the National Environmental Policy Act review process. Additionally, Ørsted and Eversource announced their final investment decision on the project around the same time.
In February, Ørsted agreed to acquire Eversource’s 50% stake in Dawn Wind following the project’s approval and the signing of an Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate contract. While Ørsted will become the sole owner of the project, Eversource will remain contracted to oversee the project’s onshore construction activities. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority finalized a new OREC for Dawn Wind in early June, after the project was restructured in a 2023 offshore wind solicitation due to financial constraints. This revised contract includes additional benefits for the state, such as increased economic commitments for investments in disadvantaged communities and funding for wildlife and fisheries monitoring.
