NEW YORK (AP) — Federal officials say more than 81,000 acres off the coast of Long island will be dedicated for the development of commercial wind energy.
Interior Secretary Sally Jewell said Wednesday that New York state has "tremendous" wind potential. Officials say the 81,130-acre area is large enough to make major renewable energy contributions.
An environmental assessment will now be completed to determine effects associated with leasing the waters for energy projects.
Long Island Power Authority, New York Power Authority and Con Edison proposed the wind farm 11 miles south of Long Island in 2011.
It would include up to 200 turbines generating 700 megawatts of energy with a price tag estimated at between $2 billion and $4 billion.
Federal officials decided to open the bidding for other commercial leases. No leases have yet been awarded.
