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NJ offshore wind monopiles are being scrapped at port
Credit: December 13, 2024 · wildwoodvideoarchive.com ~~
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Several massive offshore wind monopiles, manufactured at New Jersey’s cutting-edge Wind Port, are being scrapped instead of heading out to sea to become wind turbines.
Photos by Martt Koski
Monopiles are critical components for offshore wind farms, serving as the foundation for turbines. Manufactured from high-grade steel, these towering cylinders can weigh hundreds of tons and stand as tall as skyscrapers.
New Jersey’s Wind Port, located in Lower Alloways Creek was designed to be a hub for offshore wind construction, supporting the state’s ambitious clean energy goals.
However, recent reports and photos indicate that monopiles at the facility are being scrapped so the material can be used for other projects.
The dismantling comes in the wake of a major setback for New Jersey’s offshore wind ambitions. About a year ago, Ørsted, a leading wind energy developer, abruptly canceled two offshore wind projects planned for the state.
This decision disrupted the timeline for fully operationalizing the Paulsboro wind port, which was originally anticipated to play a pivotal role in the region’s offshore wind infrastructure.
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The future of the port, along with a similar facility in Salem County, hinges on new offshore wind projects moving forward.
Currently, three projects have received state approval, with construction on one expected to begin in 2025.
Paulsboro is poised to become a hub for manufacturing foundations for offshore wind turbines, while Salem County could handle turbine assembly before the components are transported offshore.
State officials continue to push for offshore wind development as part of broader climate initiatives.
Governor Phil Murphy has set a target of 11,000 megawatts of offshore wind energy by 2040. However, progress in the industry has been uneven, influenced by political and economic factors.
Nationally, offshore wind development has become a contentious political issue.
Recent comments from political leaders suggest contrasting approaches, with some pledging to halt projects entirely, while others emphasize continued investment and growth.
These comments are echoed by incoming President Trump who had promised to cancel said projects in the state of New Jersey.
As Paulsboro moves forward with dismantling and recycling its monopiles, the port’s role in New Jersey’s clean energy future remains in flux.
The state’s ability to harness offshore wind energy will depend not only on infrastructure readiness but also on the broader political and economic landscape shaping renewable energy development.
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