Governor Cuomo Announces Release of New York State Offshore Wind Blueprint

Plan Outlines Strategic Approach to Responsibly Develop Offshore Wind Resources and Meet Clean Energy Standard Commitment of 50-Percent Renewables by 2030

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the release of the New York State Offshore Wind Blueprint. First announced in the 2016 State of the State address, the strategic plan will advance the development of offshore wind along New York’s coastline.  New York State is home to some of the world’s strongest offshore wind resources, which will contribute to the Governor’s aggressive mandate to supply 50 percent of the state’s electricity from renewable energy resources by 2030.

"New York is a national leader in combating climate change and now we are taking the next big step forward,” Governor Cuomo said.  “By developing a viable offshore wind energy source, we will continue to provide New Yorkers with clean, affordable power and lay the foundation for a thriving clean energy economy.  This plan represents the future of New York and will cement our role as a leader in the renewable energy industry for generations to come.”

The Blueprint creates a framework for the responsible development of robust wind energy generation off the coast of New York through a comprehensive Offshore Wind Master Plan.  To lead on offshore wind development in the U.S. and ensure responsiveness to the communities involved, New York State is committed to responding to feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including energy consumers, utilities, environmental groups, coastal communities, commercial fisherman and the maritime industry.  The Blueprint covers current and planned environmental studies, and strategic options to support sustainable and properly-sited offshore wind development, including site characterization and site assessment work. 

The Blueprint also defines the New York Offshore Study Area and identifies Wind Energy Areas outside of the study area that will be reviewed with respect to grid interconnection, costs, and benefits they may bring to New York.  All of these options will be included in the final Offshore Wind Master Plan, expected at the end of 2017.

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