The timeline for executing long-term contracts for offshore wind energy in Massachusetts has been extended, with agreements now expected by the end of 2025. This follows the state’s fourth offshore wind solicitation, which was approved by the Department of Public Utilities in August 2023.
The request for proposals was developed by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources together with Unitil, National Grid and Eversource Energy, who form the Evaluation Team overseeing the process.
Originally, contracts with two selected developers were expected to be signed by June 2025. However, ongoing uncertainty related to federal processes has delayed negotiations. The new target date for completing contracts is 31 December 2025, with formal submission to the Department planned for no later than 25 February 2026.
The Evaluation Team has confirmed it will continue to update the Department on the status of the negotiations. The delay highlights the complexities involved in advancing large-scale offshore wind projects, which require coordination between state agencies, utility companies, developers and federal authorities.
