The US state of Massachusetts could double its offshore wind energy targets following a report into the state’s offshore wind energy policies.
The Massachusetts’ Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has recommended that the state sign contracts for another 1600 MW of offshore wind capacity through two solicitations in the early 2020s.
The solicitations would add to existing plans in Massachusetts for 1600 MW of offshore wind capacity, the first 800 MW of which is due to start operating in 2021.
DOER says that Massachusetts should hold two 800 MW solicitations for offshore wind capacity in 2022 and 2024.
Other recommendations made by DOER include examining the benefit of holding solicitations for energy storage capacity, and solicitations for grid ties to link planned offshore wind farms to the mainland grid.
Vineyard Wind, a joint venture of Avangrid and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, won the first 800 MW solicitation last year and will start construction of its project later this year.
Massachusetts opened a request for proposals for 800 MW of offshore wind capacity last month.
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