04/05/2018

Aeolus Energy Group Announces Major Expansion Into US Offshore Wind Market

Aeolus Energy Group (AEG), a market leader in wind turbine maintenance and repair has announced a major expansion in the developing US offshore wind market. The company has begun development and construction of several key assets.

“We expect to create over 4,000 jobs in the coming years. AEG sees this investment as our demonstration of confidence in the US market.” Said Elia Golfin, CEO of Aeolus Energy Group. “The untapped potential of offshore wind energy in US coastal waters is well documented. The initial projects are well into their development – what is lacking is a US construction fleet, trained American workers, and port facilities to do the work. That is what we intend to create.”

AEG has announced an aggressive building plan featuring the following:
Jack-Up vessels capable of installing the newest generation of 10 and 12 MW turbines
Cable ships capable of installing both the medium and high voltage marine cables
Service Operations Vessels to provide large-scale accommodation at sea for workers
A fleet of Crew Transfer assets, both vessels & helicopters
Port facilities in both Massachusetts and Maryland

“We are pleased to see specific investment in US offshore wind supply chain,” said Jason Folsom, head of sales for Siemens Gamesa Offshore Americas. “Offshore wind will play a significant role in the US electricity markets, producing clean power for millions of homes and businesses. Offshore wind represents a major opportunity for jobs and economic growth in a truly new energy industry in the US. This investment by AEG is a great step forward in localizing this new industry. ”

“The Network is proud to have played a role in AEG expanding their role in the offshore wind marketplace,” said Liz Burdock, Executive Director of the Business Network for Offshore Wind. “Building port facilities in two key states and a fleet of offshore wind support vessels is exactly the infrastructure we need to move the industry forward, employ thousands of local residents and establish offshore wind as a US economic engine.”

Jones Act : Offshore wind farms in the United States have to be compliant with a law known as the “Jones Act.” The Jones Act requires the use of US- built vessels owned and operated by US citizens, and manned by US citizens in certain circumstances .