Nation’s first regional offshore wind supply chain study shows more than 50 state companies contributing to active projects — with over 450 identified as having strong potential
Groton, Connecticut – The Connecticut Wind Collaborative (CWC) today released the nation’s first regional offshore wind supply chain study, “Connecticut Offshore Wind Supply Chain Assessment: Opportunities and Collaborative Efforts in the Northeast.”
Initiated by the Wind Collaborative and produced by Xodus Group, the report shows Connecticut businesses are an integral part of the offshore wind energy industry, and that the region has hundreds more businesses with the potential to benefit from growth in the sector. The assessment also outlines steps decision makers can take to attract more offshore wind jobs and investment in the area.
“This report proves what we have been seeing for a long time; Connecticut businesses are an important link in the offshore wind supply chain and that translates into business growth and more jobs,” said Kristin Urbach, executive director of the Connecticut Wind Collaborative. “We are committed to working with our partners to implement the study’s recommendations, ensuring that Connecticut and the region capitalize on this tremendous opportunity and achieve our clean energy goals.”
The assessment highlights that more than 50 Connecticut companies are already contributing to active offshore wind projects and port infrastructure development. An additional 450 companies have strong potential to enter the sector, with more than 130 possessing either previous offshore wind experience or highly applicable expertise needed in the offshore wind supply chain.
“As this study makes clear, this new, domestic, sustainable energy industry is already providing jobs for Connecticut’s skilled workers and represents opportunities for many more,” said Gov. Ned Lamont. “We need more energy production, and offshore wind should be allowed to scale up to increase domestic energy sources while driving growth in manufacturing and construction.”
“This report shows what we already know—Connecticut companies are at the forefront of making clean energy a reality for New England, and solidifying energy independence for our nation,” said U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal. “At every step of the supply chain you can find Connecticut’s skilled workers and manufacturers leading the charge for a greener future, and I pledge to keep fighting for strong investment in offshore wind projects and sustainable energy for the good of our people and the planet.”
The report emphasizes Connecticut’s unique strengths, particularly in advanced manufacturing, where companies with experience in the aerospace and defense industries are well-positioned to meet the stringent standards of offshore wind manufacturing. The state’s strategic investment in port infrastructure, most notably the $310 million upgrade to the New London State Pier Terminal, has created an East Coast hub for staging and marshaling offshore wind projects in the Northeast.
The report underscores the critical role of the Connecticut Wind Collaborative in fostering regional collaboration to address industry challenges, pursue opportunities, and drive economic growth across the Northeast. The study provides a roadmap for Connecticut and its neighboring states to maximize the economic and environmental benefits of offshore wind by identifying opportunities for collaboration in areas such as supply chain development, workforce training, transmission planning, and procurement strategies.
“State governments are key to driving the industry forward at the moment. This study shows that collaborative efforts underpinned by regional strengths are the foundation for building a prosperous and sustainable industry future,” says Andy Logan, Head of Industry Development at Xodus.
The Connecticut Wind Collaborative is taking on a key role in implementing the study’s recommendations by:
- Convening stakeholders to facilitate communication and knowledge sharing.
- Promoting standardization and best practices in supply chain development.
- Advocating for workforce development initiatives and funding.
- Supporting research and development efforts to drive innovation in the sector.
Regional meetings to advance the recommendations are underway so communities, businesses, educational institutions, and economic development partners can speed the offshore wind supply chain opportunities and benefits to the region.
The full report is available here.
About the Connecticut Wind Collaborative
The Connecticut Wind Collaborative, a non-profit organization, is the lead convenor, connector,
and collaborator dedicated to promoting the development and utilization of offshore wind energy sources in Connecticut. The Collaborative brings together a diverse range of participants
including government agencies, industry representatives, academic institutions, and community
advocates. The collaboration serves as the epicenter of offshore wind for the state of Connecticut while collaborating with our regional partners.
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Media Contact:
Karen Ali
203-241-0633
