Massachusetts offshore wind logistics hub moves a step closer

The brownfield redevelopment investment envisioned by Commercial Development Company (CDC) is becoming a reality as the site evolves towards becoming a logistics and manufacturing centre, renewable energy hub and port.

EnviroAnalytics Group president Russ Becker said, “Demolition at Brayton Point has progressed to its final stages across most of the site. Grading activities will commence this spring to prepare laydown and manufacturing areas for future tenants. The grading plan is designed in accordance with the offshore wind industry requirements for a marshalling port and manufacturing offshore wind components.

“Our crews have safely deconstructed and removed 139,000 m² of former power plant infrastructure. We now have a blank canvas to create a platform for new development as the site matures into Brayton Point Commerce Center.”

Throughout the reclamation process, CDC has been engaged in extensive discussions with major offshore wind industry companies. Prospective tenants include manufacturing, logistics, cable interconnections, maintenance, and other bulk materials.

“The goal with our investment is to utilise attributes that made Brayton Point successful in the past, while supporting future energy needs, the local tax base and local employment,” said CDC executive vice president Stephen Collins.

“We have seen significant interest from prospective tenants wishing to use the port for offshore wind operations. These discussions take time as the investments are sizable.”

Of particular interest to the offshore wind sector are Brayton Point’s ability to host heavy-lift operations and receive deep-draft ocean-going vessels at the site’s newly redeveloped marine commerce terminal.

As of now, the Brayton Point Commerce Center has received nine vessel calls. These ships have included offshore wind research vessels, yacht transporters, bulk carriers and tug and barge units.

Patriot Stevedoring & Logistics co-managing director Neil McLaughlin said, “Brayton Point is in competition with other ports and states up and down the east coast vying to serve the offshore wind industry.

“Our goal is to demonstrate it is worthy of serious consideration. It is important we operate with support and co-operation of the community to attract wind industry investors.”

In May 2019, Anbaric announced an agreement with CDC to establish a 1,200-MW high voltage direct current converter and 400-MW of battery storage at Brayton Point to support the offshore wind industry.