Beacon Wind Withdraws HVDC Plans in New York City
Beacon Wind has suspended its plans for the offshore HVDC transmission into New York City, marking another setback for the U.S. offshore wind sector. The company withdrew its application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need for the proposed 320 kV HVDC transmission on February 19, 2025.
The original plan involved a 213 km HVDC transmission cable through Long Island Sound, connecting to the Astoria Gateway for Renewable Energy. However, Beacon Wind cited several factors for the pause. The company is now considering alternative interconnection points and facing uncertainty in federal permitting for offshore wind. Recent policy changes, including President Donald Trump's executive order halting new offshore wind lease awards, have also contributed to the decision.
This development is part of a broader trend of challenges facing the U.S. offshore wind industry. Rising costs have led to project cancellations across the sector. Supply chain issues have hindered progress, while insufficient infrastructure has impeded development. These factors collectively have created a challenging environment for offshore wind projects in the United States.
Beacon Wind, now solely owned by oil supermajor BP, has faced a tumultuous journey. The project was previously a joint venture between BP and Equinor. While it won New York offtake contracts for Beacon 1, it was unsuccessful in securing contracts for Beacon 2. The partnership between BP and Equinor was eventually dissolved, leading to BP taking full ownership of Beacon and the Astoria Gateway.
