We are on the brink of a historic transformation of the energy sector. The landmark energy bill passed by the state Legislature July 31 commits power distributors in the Commonwealth to significantly increasing their use of clean, renewable sources of energy, including offshore wind. By signing this bill, Gov. Charlie Baker has the opportunity to kick start a new industry in Massachusetts, while solidifying the Commonwealth’s position as a national leader in clean energy. The bill requires state utilities to purchase 1,600 MW of electricity produced by wind farms located 15 to 25 miles off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard. The wind farms will be located in federal waters leased to Deepwater Wind, which is completing the nation’s first wind power plant serving Block Island; DONG Energy, the international leader in offshore wind power generation; and Offshore MW.
