The New York Department of Transportation, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, and Empire State Development are seeking proposals for prequalification from port operators and market participants who are interested in supporting the offshore wind industry.
The agencies will prequalify applicants and competitively select proposals for public-private investment opportunities. Those who are prequalified will be eligible to participate next year in a competition for up to $200 million.
Applicants must identify at least one port facility and describe their level of site control or ability to obtain site control.
“Specialized port facilities are essential to the success of the fledgling offshore wind industry in the U.S.,” Joe Martens New York Offshore Wind Alliance director, said.
The proposals are part of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s goal of developing 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035. The administration has committed up to $200 million, and the state has selected its first two offshore wind projects.
The projects will generate nearly 1,700 megawatts, enough energy to power more than 1 million homes, and are expected to generate $3.2 billion in economic activity.
Wind-power goals for the Northeast exceed 20,000 megawatts and are expected to create $70 billion in revenue opportunities for businesses.