SouthCoast Wind - Rhode Island Deadline Approaching

by Frank Haggerty

Oct 18

SouthCoast Wind - Rhode Island Energy PPA due November 1, 2025

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 On June 30, 2025, Rhode Island Energy and SouthCoast Wind extended the PPA, Power Purchase Agreement, for the fourth time.

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 Generally, a signed power purchase agreement with a utility is necessary for offshore contractors to finance a wind project. This includes financial risks and a completed permitting schedule.

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 There are currently ongoing offshore wind lawsuits involving the Town of Nantucket and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. The case refers to the Section 106 process of the National Historic Preservation Act. 

 The new power purchase agreement between Rhode Island Energy and SouthCoast Wind is scheduled for November 1, 2025.

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The RI Energy website link below warns that there is a possibility the tentative agreement might be canceled.

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 Notes:

 #1 In 2023, SouthCoast Wind stalled its project, backing out of signed power purchase agreements and paying a fine to make a larger profit.

 #2 Vineyard Wind in Massachusetts has recently achieved 50 percent production.  Electric rates in Massachusetts are expected to rise significantly this winter, with typical residential customers facing massive increases.
 
#3 Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, as Attorney General, stopped two gas pipelines in the war on fossil fuels. Rhode Island rates generally follow Massachusetts. 
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Rhode Island Energy Offshore Wind Procurement Website 
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