The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has given final approval for a massive offshore wind farm project off the coast of Atlantic City. The $3 billion initiative, set to be one of the largest offshore wind farms in the United States, will generate enough clean energy to power over 500,000 homes.

The project, a joint venture between Danish energy company Ørsted and New Jersey’s Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG), will consist of 99 wind turbines located 15 miles off the coast. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025, with the wind farm expected to be operational by 2028.

Governor Phil Murphy hailed the decision: “This project puts New Jersey at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. It will create thousands of jobs, reduce our carbon footprint, and establish our state as a leader in renewable energy.”

While the project has faced some opposition from fishing industry groups and coastal residents concerned about visual impact, supporters argue that the economic and environmental benefits far outweigh these concerns. The wind farm is expected to create over 1,500 permanent jobs and contribute significantly to New Jersey’s goal of 100% clean energy by 2050.