SouthCoast Eager to Get Started on Offshore Development

NANTUCKET – Offshore wind developers say they are excited to move forward on projects just south of the islands following approval from a multi-state coalition last week.

Friday’s announcement was the largest offshore wind solicitation in history. 

Southcoast Wind—formerly Mayflower Wind—is one of three projects given the go-ahead, with plans to start construction next year in the 199 square mile lease area about 30 miles south of Martha’s Vineyard and 20 miles south of Nantucket.

According to a statement from the developer, Brayton Point in Somerset, MA is the interconnection point for the first 1,200 MW of power. SouthCoast Wind is also looking at Brayton Point for interconnection of the second 1,200 MW of electricity generated in the lease area.

Falmouth will to remain an option for the developer’s second phase while grid capacity and timing of necessary upgrades are determined.

It will provide over 1,000 megawatts of power to the Massachusetts Grid by 2030, according to officials. 

“We would like to acknowledge the leadership of Massachusetts Governor Healey and Rhode Island Governor McKee and their teams for their unwavering support for offshore wind and relentless drive to deliver equitable energy solutions for all of their citizens,” said Michael Brown, CEO, SouthCoast Wind and Ocean Winds North America, in a statement.

“We are ready to work together with the Administrations and state agencies, along with the business, community, labor and environmental sectors to build a new and just energy future.”

Southcoast Wind said that they are also providing $93 million in community and partnership commitments. Cape Light Compact is one of the partner organizations, though the exact amount involved in their partnership is yet to be determined.

More on the project by Southcoast Wind can be found here.

UPDATED 4:20 pm September 11, 2024. A previous version of this story indicated that Falmouth was the main land connection point. It is a considered location for the second phase of development. The story was also updated to reflect that Cape Light Compact is one of many partnerships involved in a $93 million commitment from SouthCoast Wind with exact numbers pending.