Empire Wind 1: Pioneering Offshore Wind Energy in New York
November 14, 2024Imagine a future where New York's skyline is not only defined by its towering skyscrapers but also by the majestic wind turbines harnessing the power of the Atlantic Ocean. The Empire Wind 1 project, spearheaded by Equinor, is set to become a landmark in New York's renewable energy landscape. Located 15-30 miles southeast of Long Island, this ambitious offshore wind initiative spans 80,000 acres (about half the area of Austin, Texas) and will feature up to 130 wind turbines. Once completed, the wind farm will connect to New York's electricity grid at the Gowanus Substation in Brooklyn, generating substantial economic activity, supporting workforce development, and channeling investment to disadvantaged communities.
At the heart of this transformation lies the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal (SBMT). Once a bustling hub of maritime activity, SBMT is being reborn as the operations and maintenance center for Empire Wind 1. This transformation is more than just physical; it is symbolic of New York's commitment to leading the charge in offshore wind energy.
Weeks Marine is just one of the many contractors actively involved in the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal project. SBMT is significant as it aims to create New York's first purpose-built offshore wind operations and maintenance facility. Weeks Marine's role includes renovating and constructing the pier and various marine aspects of the 73-acre project. The SBMT will support the Empire Wind 1 project, which is expected to deliver 810 megawatts of renewable energy, enough to power nearly half a million New York homes, with its first delivery of power expected in 2026.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to transform the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a modern maritime port and mixed-use community hub, potentially creating thousands of jobs and generating significant economic impact for New York City.
Weeks Marine, a key player in this renaissance, is at the forefront of the SBMT project. Their expertise in marine construction is critical, from renovating and constructing new piers to dredging waterways and facilitating logistics. Their work ensures that the terminal is ready to support the massive offshore wind operations and includes the rehabilitation of existing bulkheads and demolition of select bulkheads and an existing pier. Installation of the new bulkheads and a new Service Operations Vessel (SOV) wharf complete with gangways, ship fenders, and marine appurtenances, as well as the installation of a new stone revetment and rehabilitation of existing revetment to prevent erosion, are all part of this significant project for the experts at Weeks.
A standout aspect of Weeks Marine's contribution to the project is their use of the ICE® 44 Vibratory Driver/Extractor. This powerful tool is essential for driving sheet piles, which are crucial for creating stable barriers needed to create a solid foundation. The ICE® 44 vibratory hammer, equipped with an ICE® 140 clamp, has been instrumental in driving various size sheets efficiently and effectively. Selected for its size and performance, the ICE® 44 ensures precise placement of sheet piles, which is vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the construction site.
By driving the sheet piles to tip, Weeks Marine is creating stable barriers essential for construction, enhancing both structural stability and water control. These efforts are not just technical feats; they are the building blocks of a sustainable future.
Weeks Marine has done an amazing job providing a stable foundation for future green energy projects and ensuring that the Greater New York Community remains at the forefront of the renewable energy transition. International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) is elated to have been a small, yet substantial, part of this monumental project, ensuring the strength and stability of the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal's structural components. These efforts are crucial for transforming SBMT into a state-of-the-art facility. Congratulations to the entire Weeks Marine crew!
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Media Contact-
Pollyanna Cunningham, MA, MBA
Vice President Marketing, Brand and Media Relations
Vice President IT and IT Comm
ICE® - International Construction Equipment, Inc
Office - 704-821-8200 Email - marketing@iceusa.com