New York Announces Fourth Offshore Wind Solicitation

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority on Nov. 30 announced the launch of the state’s fourth offshore wind solicitation as part of a 10-point action plan issued in October to support the growing large-scale renewable industry. The action plan outlines a comprehensive set of actions being taken to lay the foundation for a sustainable future.

The solicitation incorporates public comment on proposed adjustments to streamline the evaluation process, in order to expand the offshore wind portfolio while addressing the needs of the industry and growing market. Final proposals are due by Jan. 25, 2024, with award announcements expected in February 2024.

The announcement also includes solicitation for land-based renewable projects, which will be conducted in a two-step process. Eligibility requirements are due on Dec. 21 to confirm that interested projects qualify. Final proposals due on Jan. 31, 2024, with announcements expected by the end of April 2024.

In October, NYSERDA awarded conditional contracts for three offshore wind and 22 land-based renewable energy projects that have a combined capacity of 6.4 gigawatts. The projects have the potential to power 2.6 million homes and deliver about 12 percent of the state’s electricity needs. The announcement of the conditional awards mark the first in a series of actions taken 10-point plan to address recent macroeconomic and inflationary challenges that have affected the renewable energy sector. The contracts also represent the largest state investment in renewable energy in the U.S.

The solicitations contribute to the goals of sourcing 70 percent of New York’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and nine gigawatts of offshore wind by 2035 as required by the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.