The Barnstable Town Council voted unanimously to approve a transmission cable at Covell’s Beach that will connect the 800MW Vineyard Wind offshore wind farm with the regional electric power grid.
The Town vote follows successful negotiation of a Host Community Agreement (HCA) between Vineyard Wind and Barnstable that will enable over USD 35 million for the town throughout the anticipated 25-year lifespan of the project.
In addition to community funding, the HCA includes requirements to protect Town water resources and prevent wind generation development in Nantucket Sound.
Vineyard Wind , which will be sited 14 miles south of Martha’s Vineyard, remains on schedule to begin site construction in 2019 and become operational by 2021.
Vineyard Wind was selected in May through a competitive process to build the nation’s first commercial-scale offshore wind farm. The company is currently seeking state and federal permits. The Massachusetts Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB) will make the final decision about siting of transmission infrastructure.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Town of Barnstable as we move forward to make offshore wind a reality here in Massachusetts,” said Erich Stephens , Chief Development Officer for Vineyard Wind.
“Town Council and staff have worked diligently to protect community interests and capture numerous benefits associated with this project. We appreciate the trust and confidence Barnstable has placed in our project and thank them for their hard work and flexibility over the past year of discussions. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with the Town.”