The New Jersey Economic Development Authority has issued a request for qualifications/proposals to support an offshore wind technical assistance program.
The EDA said the program will help local small businesses develop the skills necessary to participate in the state’s growing offshore wind industry by assessing their current capacity to support the market and develop and action plan to reach industry standards. Businesses that complete the program will receive assistance implementing their action plan and will be certified with industry credentials important for securing contracts.
“New Jersey is poised to lead the nation in offshore wind, and the Offshore Wind Technical Assistance Program will help New Jersey businesses and workers acquire the skills and industry knowledge they need to participate in this extraordinary growth opportunity,” NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan said. “Offshore wind is designated as a targeted sector under Governor Phil Murphy’s plan for a stronger, fairer New Jersey economy, and is a cornerstone of his vision for 100 percent clean energy.”
In Gov. Phil Murphy’s economic plan for New Jersey, he identified offshore wind as a sector for growth and job creation. In addition, Executive Order No. 92 set a goal for New Jersey to achieve 7,500 MW of OSW by 2035. To reach that goal, the EDA has been working with the Board of Public Utilities, the Department of Environmental Protection and other agencies on an Offshore Wind Task Force to expand the industry through various programs.
The EDA said it plans to award a two-year contract with three one-year extensions to an experienced OSW advisory/certification company to develop the technical assistance program.
The awarded firm will be primarily responsible for:
- Designing a Technical Assistance/Certification Program for New Jersey-based businesses seeking to develop the competencies necessary to supply the offshore wind energy industry;
- Conducting outreach and marketing to recruit eligible New Jersey-based businesses to participate in the program; and
- Providing Technical Assistance and Certification services to participating businesses through implementation of the program.
“The industry continues to expand under Governor Murphy’s leadership. This program will continue to attract offshore wind developers and manufacturers, and instill confidence in them that New Jersey businesses stand at-the-ready to help them advance their projects in our state,” NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso said.
To complete RFPQ/P documents and submission requirements, click here. Proposals are due at or before 3 p.m. on Feb. 5.
“Offshore wind is not just essential to creating a cleaner, healthier environment for New Jersey; it is a new engine of innovation and economic growth for businesses and residents. Together, they can expand their expertise and build tremendous new opportunities, particularly in the manufacturing and marine sectors,” DEP Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe said. “This is where sound policy meets good business, and the DEP and its partners at the NJEDA and Board of Public Utilities are committed to achieving Governor Murphy’s clean energy vision for New Jersey.”
