The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that Vineyard Wind was selected by the Commonwealth’s Electric Distribution Companies to move forward to contract negotiations as part of the offshore wind energy procurement authorized by An Act Relative to Energy Diversity, signed by Governor Baker in 2016. The ultimate procurement of 800 megawatts (MW) will represent the largest single procurement of offshore wind by any state in the nation. Today’s announcement is an important milestone for an initiative that will ultimately spur economic development along the coast, ensure a resilient energy future for the Commonwealth and secure progress toward greenhouse gas reduction requirements.
Additionally, through Massachusetts’ leadership in competitively soliciting for offshore wind energy, the State of Rhode Island today announced it will enter into contract negotiations with Deepwater Wind to procure 400 MW of offshore wind energy. By collaborating regionally on efforts to lower electricity costs, increase reliability, improve fuel security, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Massachusetts and Rhode Island are working to bring a total of 1,200 MW of clean, local offshore wind to New England’s electric grid.
“Today’s announcement brings the Commonwealth one step closer to achieving our administration’s goals of creating a clean, reliable and cost-effective energy future for Massachusetts residents, and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “By positioning Massachusetts as a hub for the emerging offshore wind industry, this competitive procurement will ensure the Commonwealth continues to lead the nation in innovation and renewable energy generation.”
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