The Sunrise Wind project today received its Record of Decision (RoD) from the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), marking a key milestone in the federal environmental review process for the New York offshore wind project. In addition, Ørsted and Eversource today announced their final investment decision for Sunrise Wind, formalizing the commitment to build the project and begin major onshore construction activities.
Economic and climatic impact on New York
These important milestones bring the 924 MW project closer to its goal of delivering significant economic benefits across New York andhelping the state meet its climate goals. Located some 30 miles east of Montauk, New York, Sunrise Wind will be the country’s largest offshore wind farm when completed, generating enough renewable energy to power nearly 600,000 New York homes.
Sunrise Wind’s contribution to the New York Goals
Sunrise Wind will help achieve New York’s mandate of 70% renewable energy by 2030, while accelerating the development of the state’s offshore wind workforce and supply chain. The project will bring an investment of $700 million to Suffolk County and create 800 direct jobs and thousands of indirect jobs in the state. The project is scheduled for completion in 2026.
Management declarations and regulatory advances
Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), emphasized that these advances demonstrate New York’s leadership in building the U.S. offshore wind industry. David Hardy, EVP and CEO of Ørsted Americas, and Joe Nolan, CEO of Eversource Energy, expressed their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the economic benefits and local jobs it will generate.
BOEM’s issuance of the RoD formally concludes its National Environmental Policy Act review process, and precedes the anticipated approval of Sunrise Wind’s Plan of Construction and Operations (COP), expected this summer. Ørsted will acquire Eversource’s 50% share in Sunrise Wind, becoming the sole owner of the project, subject to regulatory approval and finalization of the acquisition agreements. Eversource will remain in charge of the project’s onshore construction.