Ørsted's U.S. Offshore Wind Projects: Block Island Wind Farm
We are taking real action to create a world that runs entirely on green energy.
Ørsted's U.S. Offshore Wind Projects: Block Island
In the U.S., we have the potential to deliver clean energy to the seven states on the East Coast that have committed to build more than 15GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030. We operate the Block Island Wind Farm, America’s first offshore wind farm, and have been awarded over 2,900MW of capacity through five projects. Our offshore wind projects will not only deliver clean, reliable energy but bring huge opportunities for local economic growth and job creation.
Block Island Wind Farm
Facts
Capacity: 30 MW
Location: Approximately 3 miles southeast of Block Island, RI
Timeline: Became operational in December 2016
The Block Island Wind Farm will lower carbon dioxide emissions by 40,000 tons each year. That's 800,000 tons over 20 years – the equivalent of taking over 150,000 cars off the road!
The Block Island Wind Farm in Rhode Island is America’s first offshore wind farm. The 30 MW, 5-turbine project began commercial operations in December 2016 and generates enough energy to power 17,000 homes.
The island, that was previously powered by 5 diesel generators which burned over 1 million gallons of fuel every year, is now powered entirely by offshore wind.
The project connects Block Island to the mainland grid for the first time. The wind farm provides reliable, renewable energy reduces the island’s electricity rates while diversifying Rhode Island’s power supply. Block Island has created a brand-new industry in Rhode Island, putting people to work building and maintaining renewable energy projects that will power the region's future.
All told, more than 300 local workers were involved with building the Block Island Wind Farm.
Read more about Ørsted’s other U.S. offshore wind projects here
