Offshore Wind Energy Project Moves Forward off NJ, DE, MD, VA

A project known as Atlantic Wind Connection has received approval from the US Department of the Interior to make use of a section of the outer continental shelf for offshore wind energy tranmission lines.  The transmission lines will stretch from northern New Jersey to southern Virgina, creating a "backbone" of tranmissions lines along one of the most densely populated areas of the country.  This additional enegry infrastructure, which will interconnect with the existing regional PJM electricity grid, will reduce congestion in an already stressed grid.  Completiong of the project is expected to take about 10 years.

This is a big step toward harnessing the power of offshore winds.  With transmission lines in place, wind farm developers will have some certainty regarding their ability to connect turbines to the grid and sell the power they produce.

For more information about the recent decision by the Department of the Interior or about Atlantic Wind Connection, click here.