US Department of Interior approves Atlantic Shores offshore wind farm in New Jersey

The Interior Department has given the green light to the proposed Atlantic Shores offshore wind farm in New Jersey, marking a significant milestone for the state's first offshore wind project. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland highlighted that this approval is the ninth offshore wind project sanctioned under the Biden administration, paving the way for 13 gigawatts of electricity production, sufficient to power 5 million homes. Haaland emphasized the administration's commitment to clean energy and its goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore energy by 2030, aiming to address climate change, stimulate job growth, and create economic opportunities for all communities. The Atlantic Shores project, comprising two phases to be constructed between Atlantic City and Long Beach Island in southern New Jersey, is a crucial step towards achieving the state's ambitious target of 100% clean energy by 2035. CEO Joris Veldhoven expressed enthusiasm for the project's approval, recognizing its significance in advancing offshore wind initiatives and generating well-paying union jobs through collaborations with supply chain partners. Despite opposition from groups like Protect Our Coast-NJ, who criticize the impact on communities and the environment, major environmental organizations have lauded the approval as a positive development for climate, public health, and the economy. Atlantic Shores, a joint venture between Shell New Energies US LLC and EDF-RE Offshore Development LLC, plans to construct 195 wind turbines as part of the project, slightly below the initially sought 200 turbines. The company has assured that the turbines will be positioned at least 12.8 miles from the shore, addressing concerns about the project's proximity to the coastline. The Interior Department's decision underscores the growing support for offshore wind in New Jersey and signifies progress in transitioning towards cleaner energy sources. For more updates on this story, follow Wayne Parry on Twitter at www.twitter.com/WayneParryAC.