In a concerted effort to expedite the expansion of offshore wind projects along the U.S. Atlantic coast, 13 prominent clean energy and environmental organizations have jointly called upon coastal states to prioritize the planning and solicitation of offshore transmission systems. The move comes as offshore wind development gains momentum across the nation.

Led by the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) and the American Clean Power Association (ACP), the coalition emphasizes the adoption of standardized 525 kilovolt (kV) high-voltage direct current (HVDC) system hardware, a benchmark established through collaboration between European utilities and the electric equipment supply chain. According to the coalition, this standardization is pivotal in facilitating the long-term growth of the offshore wind industry in the United States.

Advantages of embracing these hardware standards include cost-effective access to the global supply chain, streamlined transmission solicitations, enhanced certainty for offshore developers and the transmission supply chain, and a reduction in environmental impact by minimizing the number of offshore grid systems required while maintaining energy output.

ACORE President and CEO Ray Long underscored the urgency of the matter, stating, "America cannot afford to drag its heels any longer in planning and deploying the transmission necessary to achieve the clean energy transition." Long emphasized that offshore wind energy is a crucial component in meeting the nation's escalating electricity demand.

Like Long, ACP CEO Jason Grumet emphasised the need for state collaboration to standardise offshore wind transmission. Grumet stressed that coordination today is vital to unlock the long-term benefits of offshore wind, crucial to meeting the country's growing energy requirements.

The coalition's letter urges Atlantic Coast states to initiate planning and procurement for offshore transmission systems promptly, leveraging existing supply chain infrastructure and order books to ensure timely implementation. The groups advocate for transmission solicitations to commence expeditiously to support the industry's growth ambitions, aiming for operational systems by the 2032-2033 timeframe.

As the offshore wind industry continues its rapid expansion, the call for standardized transmission systems signifies a pivotal step towards realizing the full potential of clean, renewable energy along the Atlantic coast. For further insights into the operational and market benefits of HVDC transmission technology, interested parties can refer to an ACORE-sponsored report from The Brattle Group and DNV.