America’s largest offshore wind farm, located approximately 30 miles from Virginia Beach, is on track to begin delivering electricity to the grid by March 2026, as confirmed by Dominion Energy. The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project, which has reached a significant milestone by completing the installation of all 176 turbine foundations, is crucial for meeting the rising energy demands in Virginia, particularly as the state experiences a surge in data-center construction.
Construction of CVOW has proceeded rapidly, thanks in part to favorable weather conditions and a smooth hurricane season, allowing for the successful completion of foundation work within the federally mandated timeframe needed to protect migrating North Atlantic right whales. The project has garnered bipartisan support, including from prominent Republican figures in Virginia. U.S. Representative Jen Kiggans emphasized the project’s importance for state military operations and economic growth, noting the $500 million power grid upgrade for Naval Air Station Oceana that will stem from this partnership. Dominion has invested $6 billion in CVOW over the course of its development, significantly bolstering the local economy with job creation and increasing the nation’s manufacturing capabilities.
Dominion is now gearing up for the final stages of the project, focusing on turbine installation. This phase will utilize Charybdis, the first U.S.-built wind-turbine installation vessel compliant with the Jones Act, enhancing the efficiency of the installation process. The project is expected to play a vital role in delivering renewable energy while contributing to environmental goals and meeting the escalating energy needs of Virginia’s growing infrastructure.