Almost 150 years ago, New Jersey made history by being the first place in the world to light up an entire town with new overhead wire technology. Today, the state is leading the way again by harnessing wind power off its coasts. New Jersey aims to build 11 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2040, enough to power over 5 million homes. The New Jersey Wind Port, the nation’s largest and first purpose-built offshore wind facility, will make the state a key player in the East Coast’s offshore wind industry and enable local manufacturing of turbine components.

Investing in offshore wind is crucial for supporting working families in New Jersey, who often face the worst impacts of extreme weather and high energy prices. Offshore wind offers stable, reliable clean power and good jobs. The industry has already created hundreds of union jobs that pay well, offer benefits, and provide health care and retirement security without saddling young people with debt. As the industry grows, more well-paying union jobs will be created, boosting the economy from the bottom up and middle out.

Despite challenges like interest rates, supply chain issues, and inflation, New Jersey remains committed to offshore wind. The state is moving faster than its neighbors because it recognizes the huge opportunity and the urgent need to tackle climate change. With the support of the labor movement, New Jersey is set to build an offshore wind industry that benefits workers, strengthens the economy, and ensures a sustainable future. The state’s proactive approach shows that the potential benefits far outweigh the risks, making offshore wind a key part of New Jersey’s economic and environmental strategy.

Read More: N.J. is forging ahead on offshore wind — creating good jobs along the way