Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on January 13, 2021, that New York would be developing several wind energy programs and systems throughout the state, including an offshore wind turbine staging facility to be built at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal at Sunset Park. 

The Governor said during his announcement that, “New York can and will be the nation’s leader for renewable energy innovation and production, all while securing jobs of the future for New Yorkers.”

What Are Some Details of the Sunset Park Wind Turbine Project?

This project is currently in the pre-planning stages and is part of an overall offshore wind project that will affect other ports and areas throughout the state, including other projects that will take place in Albany, near Jones Beach, and near Montauk Point in Long Island. New York State will be partnering with Equinor Wind US LLC for the projects, with BP being a 50% partner in some of the projects. 

The turbine project will comprise approximately 73 acres, and Equinor has said it will be the ‘largest dedicated offshore wind port” in the US. The Sunset Park project alone is projected to create 1,000 short-term construction jobs to build the hub and 200 long-term jobs, as the facility is to serve as a maintenance hub after it is completed. 

What Will the Project Accomplish?

Initially, developers had wanted to build a 35-acre manufacturing and retail complex, which was withdrawn after criticism from environmental activists, who had wanted a greener port. Additionally, activists also thought it would displace people in the community. Keeping in mind that the wind turbine is part of a greater project, the overall project is intended to help the state of New York reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050. 

New York State Energy Research & Development’s office is funding $200 million toward the project, with another $200 million coming from private funds. Governor Cuomo says his overall Reimagine, Rebuild, 

Renew plan will create over 50,000 jobs for New York residents and create 12,400 megawatts of green energy that will power 6 million homes.