MT. LAUREL, NJ — Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind will be the second tenant to use the New Jersey Wind Port after the developer signed a Letter of Intent with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), Gov. Phil Murphy announced at the Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey’s luncheon in Mt. Laurel.

Atlantic Shores will lease 35 acres of land at the New Jersey Wind Port, in Lower Alloways Creek, Salem County, for marshaling of the 1.5 gigawatt offshore wind project that will be about 10 to 20 miles off the coast between Atlantic City and Barnegat Light, according to the announcement. The company said the project will produce enough energy to power more than 700,000 homes.

Atlantic Shores expects the project to create more than 200 new jobs at the Port.

The lease is expected to start in mid-2026 for a period of up to three years and options to extend, Murphy said.

“Atlantic Shores’ commitment in Salem County affirms the critical importance of the Wind Port to the nation’s offshore wind industry and toward a more robust, sustainable New Jersey economy,” said Murphy. “New Jersey’s leadership in offshore wind is on the rise, bringing with it significant catalytic investment, family-sustaining career opportunities, and the promise of a healthier environment for future generations.”

Atlantic Shores’ use of the Port is expected to create approximately 200 direct jobs, including trades, stevedores, preassembly and installation technicians, and project management personnel, with “significant indirect benefits expected for the local and regional economy,” according to the announcement. Atlantic Shores is the second wind developer to execute an LOI for use of the Port, following execution of an LOI with Ørsted in April 2022.

NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan said that the Port offers strategic and tactical advantages, which offer both clean energy and economic growth.

“The Wind Port and Governor Murphy’s other efforts to combat climate change are driving economic growth, reskilling our workforce, and creating inclusive, long-term career opportunities for all New Jerseyans who want to help advance the green economy,” said Jane Cohen, Executive Director of the Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy.

“Climate change is already having significant impacts on New Jersey, contributing to more powerful storms, increasing flooding threats across the state, menacing our economically vital coastline with rising sea levels, and impacting residents’ health, and especially our most vulnerable populations,” said Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette. “With the signing of this Letter of Intent, New Jersey is now on the doorstep of transforming the state from dependency on fossil fuels to one of green energy and green jobs while helping to secure a more resilient future. The Department of Environmental Protection is proud to be a partner during this crucial period of the state’s history.”