New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on June 22 announced that South Fork Wind, New York's first offshore wind farm, has achieved its "steel in the water" milestone with the installation of the project's first monopile foundation.
In the coming days, South Fork Wind will install the project's U.S.-built offshore substation.
The project remains on-track to become America's first utility-scale offshore wind farm to be completed in federal waters when it begins operations by the end of this year and supports the New York Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goal to develop 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035.
First approved by the Long Island Power Authority in 2017, South Fork Wind was selected under a 2015 request for proposals to address growing energy needs on the east end of Long Island.
South Fork Wind now officially enters its wind turbine installation phase, the final construction period on the 12-turbine, 130-megawatt project.
South Fork Wind launched in February 2022, beginning with the onshore export cable system.
The project is one of five offshore wind projects New York State has in active development, the largest portfolio in the nation. This current portfolio totals more than 4,300 megawatts.
"Today marks a significant step in New York's clean energy journey and for LIPA's commitment to ensure a sustainable and resilient future for our customers,” said Long Island Power Authority CEO Tom Falcone. “Years in the making, this project milestone signifies that our efforts are transforming from vision into reality. We are proud to be a part of this landmark project and will continue to lead and innovate in our pursuit of a sustainable future for Long Island and in the Rockaways."
