The State of Connecticut made a historic move towards clean energy as the legislation to procure an additional 2,000 megawatts (MW) of offshore wind energy after Governor Ned Lamont signed the bill that also passed the state senate last week.

The House Bill 7156, An Act Concerning the Procurement of Energy Derived From Offshore Wind, had an eventful journey. Last month, the Connecticut House of Representatives voted 134-10 in favor of the legislation, which will authorize the development of the additional 2,000 MW (2,000 GW) of offshore wind capacity.

After three weeks, Connecticut Senate has unanimously approved the bill, which is set for the final step—being signed by Governor Lamont into law.

Following the signing, the state’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) will issue a request for proposal (RFP) process, followed by a public comment period. The RFP will also include the findings of the Commission of Environmental Standards, which will recommend best practices on minimizing environmental and fisheries impact, according to a report.

Lamont spoke about the signing of HB7156, “This emerging industry has the potential to create hundreds of good paying jobs for the residents of our state and drive economic growth in towns along our shoreline.” In addition, “By delivering zero carbon renewable energy, we can increase our region’s fuel security while also making significant progress toward meeting our climate goals. By adopting this new law, we are sending a clear message – Connecticut is serious about becoming a major player in the clean energy economy.”