Massachusetts Offshore Wind Contracts Delayed to Late 2025 Amid Federal Uncertainty

Massachusetts has postponed the finalization of long-term offshore wind contracts to late 2025, with formal submissions expected by early 2026, due to ongoing uncertainties related to federal processes. This delay marks the fourth extension since the projects were selected in 2024 and reflects broader challenges in advancing offshore wind, including a developer withdrawing and potential multi-year delays for others. Governor Maura Healey has expressed openness to diverse energy sources, including nuclear power, emphasizing the need to increase energy supply regardless of the source amid reevaluation of the state's ambitious emissions reduction goals. The state aims to reduce carbon emissions significantly by 2030 and achieve net-zero by mid-century, but high energy costs and shifting federal policies under President Trump—who favors fossil fuels over renewables—have complicated progress. Similarly, Rhode Island's offshore wind project has encountered its fourth contract delay, with the utility warning that the agreement with SouthCoast Wind may be canceled if negotiations fail by November 1, driven largely by federal regulatory uncertainties. Overall, these setbacks highlight the complex interplay of state ambitions, federal regulatory environment, and market conditions affecting offshore wind development in New England.