Revolution Wind, a utility-scale wind farm serving Rhode Island and Connecticut has received the final approval from the U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. The approval gives the go-ahead for kicking off the construction of offshore wind, marking a significant move forward in promoting clean energy initiatives in the region. Revolution Wind is being developed by Ørsted and Eversource.
After becoming operational, the 704 MW offshore wind farm will supply 400 MW of electricity to Rhode Island and 304 MW to Connecticut. This power plant is expected to provide enough energy for over 350,000 homes in both states.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee said, “Revolution Wind project will be essential to advancing the state’s 100% renewable energy standard by 2033.”
Start of Offshore Construction for Revolution Wind
Revolution Wind has already initiated onshore construction activities, with plans for offshore construction scheduled to commence in 2024. The wind farm is projected to be up and running by the year 2025. Joe Nolan, Chairman, President, and CEO of Eversource Energy, expressed gratitude for the final approval, emphasizing the transformative impact Revolution Wind will have on Connecticut and Rhode Island’s energy landscape.
Read also: BP and Equinor Secure U.S. Government Approval for 2.08GW Offshore Wind Farm off Long Island
Revolution Wind, situated around 15 nautical miles southeast of Point Judith in Rhode Island, will consist of 65 Siemens Gamesa 11 MW wind turbines installed on monopile foundations.
The initiative is anticipated to create thousands of jobs, spanning direct, indirect, and induced employment opportunities. It will also result in permanent positions for operations and maintenance in both states. Ørsted reported that approximately 100 local union workers are actively engaged in the construction of the project’s onshore transmission system.
The approval, given on November 17, includes a comprehensive 108-page list of conditions. These conditions cover aspects such as turbine spacing, construction methods in federal ocean waters, and measures to mitigate the impact on marine habitats and species.
