Rhode Island seeking public comment on offshore wind RFP
The state of Rhode Island is seeking public comment on an offshore wind procurement request for proposals (RFP).
The 30-day comment period is now open through Oct. 7. The state’s primary utility company, Rhode Island Energy, is administering the RFP. The utility will issue the procurement to the market no later than Oct. 15.
“Rhode Island is home to the nation’s first offshore wind farm making us a leader in the blue economy,” Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee said. “Offshore wind is a clean and reliable source of energy that will be essential for meeting our new 100 percent renewable energy by 2033 goal and our Act on Climate emissions reductions target. This public comment period gives stakeholders an opportunity to make their voices heard during the RFP process. This is an important step toward developing an RFP that will effectively help to reach our climate, economic and environmental goals.”
The RFP calls for an additional 600 to 1,000 MW of offshore wind, which is estimated to meet at least 30 percent of Rhode Island’s 2030 electricity demand. When combined with the 30 MW Block Island Wind farm and the planned 400 MW Revolution Wind project, roughly half of the state’s energy needs will be powered by offshore wind.
“Offshore wind is an incredible opportunity for our state, and we’re dedicated to making sure that every Rhode Islander has the chance to participate in its economic and environmental benefits,” Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos said. “This massive addition to our offshore capacity will set our pace in pursuit the most ambitious path to 100 percent renewable electricity in the nation. We are looking forward to hearing from constituents about how we can expand in a way that feels equitable and accessible to all Rhode Islanders.
The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) will be collecting public comments on the drafted RFP. Also, a public hearing will be held on Sept. 21. Rhode Island Energy will review and consider the comments prior to issuing the final RFP to the offshore wind market for competitive proposals in mid-October. The draft RFP may be viewed at http://www.governor.ri.gov.
