Assemblyman Fred Thiele (I, D, WF, WE-Sag Harbor) today announces his support for Governor Cuomo’s offshore wind study in New York State. The recently announced, NYPA-led study will research and analyze the methods by which offshore transmission has been developed in places outside New York State. It will also focus on the ownership structures, business models and financing approaches used in each jurisdiction, as well as the regulatory approaches governing transmission development and cost recovery. Results of the study are expected this fall.

“The East End has a thriving economy. The protection of our environment and quality of life has been the key to our prosperity. That success has resulted in an increased demand for energy,” stated Assemblyman Thiele. “The development of renewable energy sources, such as offshore wind energy, as a replacement for fossil fuel is critical as we combat the problems associated with climate change. It is also the most viable option for continued energy independence for Long Island.”

According to Governor Cuomo, the study will examine successful offshore wind transition models, and will be conducted in cooperation with New York power agencies and other partners. The findings of this study will enable the State and offshore wind developers to put these major clean energy projects in place in an informed, cost-effective manner, thereby reducing ratepayer costs and moving the state even further along in its pursuit of renewable energy goals. The State has called for at least 800 megawatts of offshore wind power from existing lease areas and 2,400 megawatts of off shore wind by 2030. The South Fork Wind Farm will be developed off the coast of East Hampton by Deepwater Wind, and is planned to be the largest offshore wind project in the nation to date.

“Consistent with my vision for our energy future, I have generally supported the goal of the State of New York’s REV (Reforming the Energy Vision) for the development of renewable energy, including offshore wind. I applaud the Governor’s leadership in conducting this ever-important study that will greatly benefit the East End, and all of New York.” Assemblyman Thiele stated, “I also understand the concerns of the commercial fishing industry regarding the development of offshore wind projects. I have worked with the commercial fishing industry to address their legitimate and too-often ignored concerns about federal quotas and state licensing regulations, and the Governor’s study must take these concerns into consideration. The potential impacts to the fishing industry must be identified, addressed, and avoided.”