Shell, EDF Renewables invest in New Jersey offshore wind

Jan. 2, 2019
EDF Renewables North America and Shell New Energies US LLC have formed a 50/50 joint venture, Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind LLC, to co-develop OCS-0499 lease area within the New Jersey wind energy area.

Offshore staff

SAN DIEGO and HOUSTON– EDF Renewables North America and Shell New Energies US LLC have formed a 50/50 joint venture, Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind LLC, to co-develop OCS-0499 lease area within the New Jersey wind energy area.

The lease area holds the potential to produce about 2,500 megawatts of offshore wind energy – enough to power close to one million homes. This transaction is subject to regulatory approvals. Construction is subject to a positive final investment decision.

The lease comprises 183,353 acres about 8 mi (13 km) off the coast of Atlantic City on the US outer continental shelf. The area offers strong and steady wind resources in relatively shallow water, close to large population centers with associated electricity demand.

Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind LLC will begin working to complete a site assessment plan and initiate formal development efforts on the site, and subject to a positive final investment decision, could bring the wind farm into operation by the mid-2020s.

Dorine Bosman, VP Shell Wind Development, said: “Shell has bold ambitions to grow our renewable power business and we see great potential inUS offshore wind. Gaining access to this acreage in New Jersey complements our successful entry to Massachusetts and our existing renewable generation business. Building on the strength of our brand and global presence allows us to continue providing our customers with more and cleaner energy.”

Tristan Grimbert, president and CEO of EDF Renewables North America, added: “The opportunity supports the EDF Group’s aim to double global renewable capacity to 50 gigawatts by 2030. It solidifies EDF Renewables ambitions to leverage its depth of experience in the European offshore wind market in the emerging US market.

“As the costs of offshore wind are declining, the US offshore wind industry is quickly advancing with strong federal and state support. The industry is well-positioned to meaningfully contribute to the New York and New Jersey economies through employment and supply chain opportunities.”

01/02/2019