The average wind farm off the coast of New Jersey's shore is expected to generate 4,300 jobs and add $702 million to the state's economy.  The wind port, in the beginning stages of development in Salem County, is projected to create 1,500 permanent jobs and generate $500 million per year in economic activity.

 

The job opportunities are boundless, but New Jersey must maximize job creation by providing family-supporting, and community-supporting, union jobs. There are job creation opportunities throughout the domestic supply chain ranging from the manufacturing of offshore wind turbines and installation of foundations to the operation of the onshore manufacturing port facility. Major infrastructure upgrades will be necessary onshore to allow successful transmission of this energy into the power grid; the highly-trained union tradesmen and women here in New Jersey already possess the skills necessary to construct this type of energy generation and distribution infrastructure.  There will also be ample opportunities for piloting research vessels.

 

As we begin to consider the training, preparation, and talent these jobs will require to build, install and maintain turbines, we must ensure the offshore wind industry continues New Jersey’s record of ardent support for union jobs.  As history has shown, union jobs lead to careers, contributing to a strong middle class in the State by employing local New Jersey residents, rather than allowing underpaid and unqualified workers tied to out-of-state contractors from other regions of the country. 

 

Garden State Offshore wind policy holds the line on consistent application of labor standards like paying prevailing wages that help all construction workers maintain a middle-class standard of living.  And the application of Project Labor Agreements allow for labor unions and wind developers set mutually agreed upon work rules and other polices that help guide these complex projects to come in ahead of schedule and under budget. 

 

New Jersey is on the right trajectory to becoming the hub for offshore wind in the region. We must maintain the momentum in smart and resourceful ways so we can reap the economic benefits that come with being a leader, put people to work in high paying jobs, and address climate change in the Garden State.

 

Respectfully,

 

Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union of New Jersey

IBEW

Ironworkers

Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters

New Jersey Laborers Employers Cooperation and Education Trust

New Jersey Mechanical Allied Craft Council

New Jersey State Pipe Trades

Operating Engineers 825

Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 9

Teamsters Local 469