Top 10 largest offshore wind farms in the USA

The pursuit of renewable energy has witnessed a robust growth in recent years, especially in the offshore wind energy sector. But how many offshore wind farms are there in the United States? With numerous projects underway and some already functional, the US is making headway in leveraging the vast potential of its coastal regions. Here is a glimpse into the top 10 largest offshore wind farms in the US.

1. Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind

Situated offshore Virginia, this colossal wind farm is set 25 to 35 nautical miles east of Cape Henry. With a staggering capacity of 2,640 MW, it’s projected to become operational by 2026. Dominion Energy, the driving force behind this venture, demonstrates its profound commitment to renewable energy.

2. Kitty Hawk Wind

Positioned off North Carolina, Kitty Hawk Wind unveils in two phases. The first phase offers 800 MW, but the endgame is a whopping 2,500 MW. Avangrid Renewables, the orchestrator of this initiative, showcases its future-forward approach to sustainable energy.

3. Wilmington East & Wilmington West Wind Farm

The Wilmington East & Wilmington West Wind Farm are situated off North Carolina’s coast. These combined projects boast an awe-inspiring capacity of 2,250 MW. Spearheaded by TotalEnergy Renewables USA, this initiative underscores the integration of renewable energy sources into the national energy matrix.

4. Atlantic Shores

New Jersey steals the spotlight with the Atlantic Shores project, located 13-15 miles east of Atlantic City. With a commendable 1,510 MW capacity, it’s set to start operations by 2028. Developed jointly by Shell New Energies and EDF Renewables, this project reflects their mutual vision for a greener tomorrow.

5. Beacon Wind 1

Sitting 60 miles east of Montauk Point, New York, Beacon Wind 1 captures the essence of wind energy’s potential with its 1,230 MW capacity. Slated for completion in 2028, Equinor Wind US LLC leads the helm of this energy juggernaut.

6. Ocean Wind 2

Anchored off New Jersey’s shores, Ocean Wind 2 targets a formidable 1,148 MW capacity. With an anticipated completion by 2027, Ørsted, the project’s pioneer, solidifies its reputation in the renewable energy domain.

7. Ocean Wind 1

Another jewel in New Jersey’s crown, Ocean Wind 1, plans to deliver a significant 1,100 MW upon its 2024 completion. Yet another achievement for Ørsted, this wind farm is set to be a milestone in the renewable energy sector.

8. Sunrise Wind

Positioned between Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Sunrise Wind proudly touts an 880 MW capacity. A collaboration between giants like Ørsted, Eversource, and others, this project is a beacon of teamwork in the renewable energy landscape.

9. Empire Wind

Gracing the waters south of Jones Beach Island, New York, Empire Wind aims to contribute a solid 816 MW by 2026. A collaborative venture between Equinor and BP, this initiative emphasizes the synergy between corporate giants in the realm of green energy.

10. Vineyard Wind

Located southwest of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, Vineyard Wind shines with its 800 MW capacity. Developed by Avangrid and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, it Is a testament to the power of sustainable innovation.

Who owns the largest wind farms in the US?

Companies like Ørsted, Dominion Energy, and Equinor are at the forefront of the US offshore wind sector. The largest offshore wind farm in the world is currently in the UK, while the largest offshore wind farm in Europe is also constantly changing as the industry rapidly grows. The U.S. offshore wind capacity is on a steady rise, aiming to match or even surpass international counterparts.

However, while the environmental benefits are clear, there are also concerns about the negative effects of offshore wind farms, especially on marine ecosystems. This emphasizes the importance of sustainable development that benefits communities and minimizes environmental impact.

Lastly, the list of 10 largest wind farms in the US is rapidly evolving. As projects progress and new ones emerge, the US continues its journey towards a more sustainable energy future.