TRENTON, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Now that Orsted has pulled out of New Jersey's offshore wind energy effort, Gov. Phil Murphy is directing his staff to accelerate the process of finding a new firm to take the reins.
Murphy says the state needs to “remain a burgeoning offshore wind development hub that attracts new projects and their accompanying economic and environmental benefits for generations to come.”
He directed his new Board of Public Utilities commissioner to begin finding new partners early next year. Murphy says continuing this transition to wind-powered energy is vital to the state’s goals of 100% clean energy by 2035.
Orsted announced last month it would scrap its two wind power projects off the state's coast. The Danish energy developer had previously warned it needed more subsidies beyond $1 million in tax credits.
While Murphy has doggedly pursued development of offshore wind production for the Garden State, the project also has its share of detractors.
Republicans in Trenton have long had concerns about its financial impact on ratepayers and possible damage to the shore and aquatic life. Top Democratic legislators also raised questions over the process for obtaining offshore wind permits.