The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) has released a report that aims to guide industry investment on potential locations for offshore wind manufacturing, as well as a supply chain directory of 320 Massachusetts and regional small businesses capable of contributing to the industry.
Specifcially, the new report provides a detailed assessment of 18 Massachusetts waterfront sites. The assessment, known as the Massachusetts Offshore Wind Ports and Infrastructure Assessment, was commissioned by MassCEC and prepared through a joint effort by Ramboll Environ, Apex Companies LLC, UMass Boston’s Urban Harbors Institute and Tufts University.
For each property, the report includes an engineering analysis to create a set of detailed upgrade plans, including conceptual redevelopment designs, high-level cost estimates and permitting pathways required for each site to be able to support offshore wind activities.
Furthermore, the Offshore Wind Supply Chain Directory includes information on 320 Massachusetts and regional small businesses with expertise in areas to support offshore wind construction and deployment. The directory is a resource to offshore wind developers, turbine manufacturers and major component suppliers interested in contracting with Massachusetts companies, says MassCEC.
“These initiatives will help maximize the economic development opportunities brought to the commonwealth by offshore wind development,” says MassCEC’s CEO, Stephen Pike. “This information will be extremely valuable as major offshore wind companies evaluate potential investments in the state to support future offshore wind projects.”
In August 2016, Gov. Charlie Baker signed an energy bill that requires utilities to competitively solicit bids for approximately 1.6 GW of offshore wind power.
MassCEC is funded by the Renewable Energy Trust, which was created by the Massachusetts legislature in 1998. A systems benefit charge paid by customers of investor-owned utilities and five municipal electric departments that have opted into the program funds the trust.
