What role does offshore wind play in Connecticut’s economy?

Connecticut has a long and storied maritime heritage and will continue to carry this legacy into a new era as a key leader and collaborator supporting the growth of the U.S. offshore wind industry and blue economy. 

Invigorated by the state’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon electricity by 2040 and supported by a commitment to environmental protection and sustainability, Connecticut is already home to critical assets, companies and technologies supporting the blue economy and the U.S offshore wind industry. 

Strategic investment in our port assets, a history of advanced manufacturing, innovative technology and research & development capabilities, have uniquely positioned Connecticut to serve as a first-mover in this new industry, already serving as a launchpad for three offshore wind projects supporting three states. 

As a result of Connecticut’s strategic investment in the State Pier Terminal in New London – totaling $310 million, which includes $100 million in private sector funding – Connecticut is at the forefront of U.S. offshore wind marshaling operations. The State Pier Terminal was the first active East Coast offshore wind marshaling terminal with unobstructed access to the ocean.

State Pier Terminal is already supporting the assembly and delivery of approximately 160 turbines for three offshore wind projects that will provide power to Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. Once installed, these projects will have an estimated output of 1,760 MW — enough to power more than 1 million homes.

Connecticut businesses touch every phase of offshore wind development – from research and manufacturing to assembly and maintenance. Our direct water access, network of deepwater ports, and long history of advanced manufacturing have made Connecticut a hub for offshore wind.

What is the Connecticut Wind Collaborative?

The Connecticut Wind Collaborative is a new nonprofit organization comprised of offshore wind leaders from across government, private and public sectors, and academia, established to support collaboration, investment, and innovation in Connecticut’s offshore wind industry. Visit www.ctwindcollaborative.org for more information.

How do the Strategic Roadmap and Connecticut Wind Collaborative fit together?

The Connecticut Wind Collaborative supports the execution of the Strategic Roadmap to inform and sustain long-term development of the offshore wind industry in Connecticut and the region.

Interested in getting involved in the Connecticut Wind Collaborative?

Contact Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer Paul Lavoie at paul.lavoie@ct.gov