Hello friends and followers,
It’s been a productive start to the summer for the SouthCoast Wind crew! In this edition we share the latest project updates, news about our local nonprofit partners, and introduce you to a member of our team.
Enjoy!
In this edition
Project Updates
Multi-State Bid Update
Last year, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut undertook a historic challenge to coordinate a multi-state offshore wind solicitation — a mechanism to harness the buying power of all three states that recognizes the interconnectedness of New England’s energy future. SouthCoast Wind and our partners have eagerly waited for the month of August to learn the results of the solicitation. However, with the August 6th announcement of a federal grant to New England states through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program, the three states have collectively decided to delay the awards announcement until on or about September 6th.
This thoughtful decision sends a positive signal that states are eager to procure offshore wind but need additional time to consider the impacts of the federal award. We applaud the state’s leadership to secure the best outcome for all parties involved.
Rhode Island Permitting Update
Earlier this year, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management approved SouthCoast Wind’s 401 Water Quality Certification and Dredge permit. The permit covers all activities related to the installation, operation, and maintenance of SouthCoast Wind 1’s subsea export cables planned for burial in Rhode Island waters.
In 2025, and prior to any cable installation, SouthCoast Wind will submit a sediment sampling and analysis report for DEM to review to ensure water quality standards are met. We will also implement a Fisheries Monitoring Plan for two years prior to installation, throughout construction, and two years following cable operations to ensure a healthy coexistence between offshore wind and marine life. Visit the Permitting & Documents page to review our permits.
Program Highlight
KidWind Academy at Mass Maritime
The SouthCoast Wind team traveled to Buzzards Bay to participate in KidWind Offshore Wind Academy. Students spent a week at Massachusetts Maritime Academy learning about renewable energy in a hands-on environment, and designed and tested their own wind turbines.
KidWind caters to students who live in underrepresented communities in Massachusetts. By hosting workshops and inviting minority engineers and scientists as guest speakers, students gain equal access to STEM education and can visualize their participation in the offshore wind industry.
KidWind Offshore Wind Academy is run by the Self-Reliance Corporation, a women-led energy education non-profit that provides workforce training and educational programs in renewable energy. They are a grant recipient from the SouthCoast Wind Fund, and we are honored to support their efforts to facilitate and promote an inclusive offshore wind workforce.
Meet our Quality, Health, and Safety Manager
Tom Cassidy
The SouthCoast Wind Project is backed by Ocean Winds, where Quality Health Safety Security Environmental (QHSSE) standards are always at the forefront of our operations. Leading the charge for all things health and safety for SouthCoast Wind is Tom Cassidy.
How did you become specialized in QHSSE?
As a Master license holding member of the UK Merchant Marines, I worked on wind turbine installation vessels for Europe’s earliest offshore wind farms. I then moved into technical and project management roles for wind farm developers, where I was involved in the planning, permitting, fabrication, installation, commissioning, and operation of several projects, including the wind turbine installation at Block Island, RI.
Why is QHSSE such an important aspect of offshore development?
QHSSE Management reduces human and environmental risks to the lowest possible level. Prior to any offshore activity, many years of design, risk assessment, and evaluation are required to identify potential hazards and establish well defined emergency procedures. This can only be realized in an environment where high standards are set, and all contractors and stakeholders are proactively involved.
How did you come to Massachusetts?
Ocean Winds, SouthCoast Wind’s parent company, transferred me to Massachusetts from Scotland (though I’m originally from Ireland!), to look after QHSSE for its three North American projects. I moved here with my wife and live in Cambridge, MA. I enjoy the opportunities that New England provides for outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and sailing.
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