Invenergy and energyRe Halt 2.4 GW Offshore Wind Project in New Jersey Due to Turbine Supplier Issues

Invenergy has requested a delay from NJBPU for its 2.4 GW wind project due to challenges finding a turbine supplier.
Invenergy, energyRe Face Turbine Supplier Issues, Hit Pause on 2.4 GW Wind Project Offshore New Jersey

Invenergy Wind Offshore (Invenergy) has requested a delay from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) until late December for its proposed 2.4 GW offshore wind project near Long Beach Island. In a July filing, the company, which is developing the wind farm with energyRe, cited challenges in finding a wind turbine supplier.

Leading Light Wind was one of two projects selected in January by the state utilities board.

Invenergy initially planned to use the Haliade-X 18 MW wind turbine, which the company believed would offer notable benefits compared to existing turbines. Due to its larger size, the turbine would require fewer units and platforms, potentially leading to cost savings and efficiencies in labor, construction, and maintenance, according to the company’s filing.

Just three weeks after NJBPU issued the approval, one of the three major wind turbine manufacturers, GE Vernova, announced it would not build the wind turbine Invenergy expected to use in the Leading Light Wind project.

By the time of the formal GE announcement, Invenergy said it was already actively engaged in discussions with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE) around the turbine supply proposal it had previously provided to the company for the 2.4 GW project.

In June 2024, SGRE notified Invenergy that it was “substantially” increasing the cost of its turbine offering.

Another wind turbine manufacturer, Vestas, was deemed unsuitable for the project for various cost and technical factors, according to the company’s filing.

As a result of these actions, Invenergy is currently without a viable turbine supplier for Leading Light Wind, the company stated in its filing.

Consequently, Invenergy requested a delay from NJBPU until 20 December 2024 to provide the developer additional time to engage with equipment manufacturers, explore cost-effective market options, and review them with the board staff and the Division of Rate Counsel.

The Leading Light Wind project, planned to be built more than 40 miles off Long Beach Island, is not the only offshore wind project impacted by volatility in the equipment market, Invenergy said in its filing.

In April 2024, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) cancelled three proposed wind projects being developed by Attentive Energy, Community Offshore Wind, and Excelsior Wind due, in large part, to their reliance on the 18 MW turbine, according to the filing.

Almost a year ago, Danish renewable energy developer Ørsted abandoned plans for two offshore wind farms off the coast of New Jersey, saying additional supplier delays further impacted the project schedule and led to another significant project delay.

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.