PROJECT NEED

New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) has determined the need to expand the electric transmission system and bring energy generated by offshore wind power sources to New York City. By doing so, reliance on greenhouse gas-emitting fossil fuels will be reduced.

UPGRADING THE ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION GRID IS ESSENTIAL BECAUSE:

It is the backbone of energy delivery, made up of high-voltage lines and substations that transmit energy from where it’s created to where it’s needed.
Like the roads we travel, electric infrastructure is relied upon 24/7, 365 days a year. Not only do we need reliability in our energy delivery, there’s also increased demand for it to be cleaner, which requires grid improvements throughout New York State.
These improvements not only strengthen our grid, but they also support healthier communities, jobs, and economic development.

New York’s landmark Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act) was signed into law in July 2019. The Climate Act established many goals for New York State, including achieving 100% zero carbon emission electricity by 2040, among others. One element of the Climate Act calls for New York State to have 9,000 megawatts (“MW”) of offshore wind energy by 2035.

In support of New York’s climate goals, the Public Service Commission (PSC) directed NYISO in 2023 to initiate a process to improve the transmission grid to support the delivery of offshore wind generating resources to New York City. On April 4, 2024, NYISO issued a Public Policy Transmission Need Project Solicitation for proposals providing complete end-to-end solutions that will accommodate the full output of at least 4,770 MW and up to 8,000 MW of incremental offshore wind generation injected into New York City with all permitting and construction activities necessary to achieve an in-service date no later than January 1, 2033.