Sign our Petition to Support Offshore Wind: https://actions.nylcv.org/a/reli-wind

As one of the most ambitious renewable energy projects in New York State’s history hangs in the balance, Renewable Energy Long Island (reLI) is standing firm in its support for offshore wind  and for the future of clean energy on Long Island and beyond.

The Empire Wind project, located 15 miles off the coast of Long Island, is designed to power 500,000 New York homes with renewable electricity generated from 54 wind turbines. Yet, a sudden stop-work order from the Trump administration now threatens the project’s future, placing thousands of jobs and $2.7 billion in investment at risk.

Melissa Parrott, Executive Director of reLI, has been a vocal and passionate advocate for the offshore wind project, which is currently about 30% complete. Speaking out against the pause, she highlighted a key irony:

“There’s nothing better than energy independence than our natural resource — the wind coming right here off the coast of Long Island that is easily going to power hundreds of thousands of homes. Almost zero fossil fuel use. Energy independence because it’s created right here in America.”

Parrott’s message gets to the heart of reLI’s mission: supporting renewable energy solutions that protect communities, create local jobs, and move us away from a dangerous dependence on fossil fuels. Offshore wind is not just a technical achievement, it’s a climate solution rooted in local empowerment and global responsibility.

Opponents of the wind farm have pointed to concerns about potential harm to marine life, particularly whales. However, Renewable Energy Long Island has been proactive in dispelling misinformation, noting that necropsies on dead whales found on Long Island shores most often indicate causes like fishing entanglements or ship strikes not offshore wind development.

While the federal government’s halt could derail progress, reLI remains committed to pushing forward. Their stance is clear: offshore wind is essential to New York’s clean energy goals and to the health of our environment and economy.

At a time when climate change’s impacts are more visible than ever, organizations like Renewable Energy Long Island are doing the critical work of making the case for a cleaner, safer, and more resilient energy future. Whether it's speaking to the press, working with community members, or advocating at the policy level, reLI is ensuring that Long Island has a powerful voice in the renewable energy movement.

As Parrott puts it, the answer is blowing in the wind, and Long Island is ready to listen.