Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the finalization of new contracts for two major offshore wind projects, Empire Wind 1 and Sunrise Wind. These projects, slated to commence operations in 2026, will be the largest power generation initiatives in New York State in over 35 years. Combined, they will produce over 1,700 megawatts of clean energy, sufficient to power more than one million homes in New York.

Supporting New York’s climate goals

These projects are a significant step towards achieving the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goal of 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of offshore wind in New York’s clean energy strategy, stating, “Offshore wind is a critical piece of our clean energy blueprint to address the climate crisis, and our investments are building a healthy, sustainable New York so that future generations can thrive.”

Economic and job benefits

The Empire Wind 1 and Sunrise Wind projects will generate more than 800 construction jobs in the near term and involve a $2 billion investment in economic development across the state. Additionally, over the 25-year lifespan of these projects, they are expected to deliver more than $6 billion in economic benefits statewide.

Key developments and progress

Empire Wind 1, located 15 miles off the New York shore, and Sunrise Wind, situated more than 30 miles east of Long Island, have completed most federal and state permitting milestones. Onshore construction for Sunrise Wind is progressing, with significant developments like the approval of its onshore cable route on Long Island. Meanwhile, Empire Wind 1 achieved a major milestone with the New York State Public Service Commission's approval of its grid connection plan.

Transforming infrastructure

Efforts are underway to transform the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a cutting-edge staging and assembly port for Equinor’s Empire Wind 1 project. This transformation is expected to create new union jobs and establish New York as a central hub for the offshore wind industry.

Industry leaders’ statements

- Molly Morris, President of Equinor Renewables Americas: "Today’s announcement signals exciting developments ahead for Empire Wind 1. The transformation of South Brooklyn Marine Terminal is already underway, creating new union jobs and placing New York at the center of an industry that will deliver a critical source of renewable power for decades to come.”

- David Hardy, EVP and CEO of Ørsted: “Sunrise Wind will be a centrepiece of America’s clean energy transformation, providing clean reliable power to the State of New York. We’re incredibly proud to be advancing what will become the nation’s largest offshore wind project upon its completion.”

- Joe Nolan, Chairman, President, and CEO of Eversource Energy: “Today's announcement begins the next chapter for Sunrise Wind, bringing America's largest offshore wind farm one step closer to fruition. Sunrise Wind will have a transformational impact on New York's economy.”

Enhanced benefits and commitments

Under the new contracts, the projects will adhere to additional provisions that bring increased benefits to the state. This includes $32 million committed to community-focused investments in disadvantaged communities and $16.5 million towards wildlife and fisheries monitoring. There are also commitments to purchase a minimum of $188 million of U.S. iron and steel, supporting domestic manufacturing.

With the finalization of these contracts, Empire Wind 1 and Sunrise Wind are on track for near-term project completion. These projects are set to drive local investments and provide enhanced economic benefits to New York State, all at cost-competitive rates, contributing significantly to New York's leadership in the clean energy economy.