State Approves Vineyard Wind Distribution Contracts

BOSTON – Contracts for off-shore wind between Vineyard Wind and electric distribution companies have been approved by state regulators.

The state Department of Public Utilities said the agreement will help spur economic development along the coast, ensure a resilient energy future and reduce greenhouse gases.

The approvals were announced on Tuesday.

Vineyard Wind has also committed to contribute $15 million to a fund that will invest in projects designed to promote the use of battery storage in low-income communities.

The company will also support the Commonwealth’s goal to further the development of energy storage systems across the state. 

Eversource, which provides electricity to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, plans on building battery storage systems in Provincetown and on the Vineyard.

“The approval of these contracts is an important step toward the completion of the largest offshore wind project in the country, which will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, provide Massachusetts residents and businesses with cost-effective clean energy and promote economic development,” said Governor Charlie Baker in a statement. 

Vineyard Wind’s bid was selected in May 2018.

Criteria used in the evaluation of the bids included an economic evaluation of the benefits for ratepayers and the project’s ability to foster employment and economic development.

“This approval by the Department of Public Utilities ensures that this project offering competitively priced and locally produced offshore wind energy to the Commonwealth can move forward,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton.

“The administration looks forward to continuing to grow its emerging offshore wind industry while leading the nation in in combating climate change.”

 

About CapeCod.com NewsCenter

The award-winning CapeCod.com NewsCenter provides the Cape Cod community with a constant, credible source for local news. We are on the job seven days a week.



CapeCod.com
737 West Main Street
Hyannis, MA 02601
Contact Us | Advertise Terms of Use 
Employment and EEO | Privacy