Virginia, October 19, 2025
The largest offshore wind farm in America is approaching completion off the Virginia coast, with plans to come online in just six months. This ambitious renewable energy initiative aims to enhance clean power generation while contributing significantly to Virginia’s sustainable energy objectives. The project highlights the state’s commitment to renewable energy and its goals to reduce carbon emissions and create a cleaner environment for future generations.
Virginia Beach, Virginia – America’s Largest Offshore Wind Farm Nears Completion
Virginia Beach, Virginia – The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project, located approximately 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach, is progressing rapidly and is on track to begin generating electricity by March 2026. This 2.6-gigawatt offshore wind farm, developed by Dominion Energy, is set to become the largest in the United States upon completion, featuring 176 wind turbines capable of powering up to 660,000 homes.
Project Milestones and Progress
As of October 2025, the CVOW project has achieved significant construction milestones. The Charybdis, a Jones Act-compliant offshore wind turbine installation vessel, arrived at Portsmouth Port on September 17, 2025, marking the commencement of turbine installation. This vessel, the first of its kind in the U.S., is integral to the project’s advancement. Additionally, the installation of monopile foundations and turbine-transition pieces has been completed, setting the stage for the upcoming turbine installations. The project remains on schedule for full completion by late 2026.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The CVOW project is poised to deliver substantial economic benefits to the region. Once operational, it is expected to create over 1,100 permanent jobs and contribute approximately $210 million in annual economic output. Environmentally, the wind farm will play a pivotal role in Virginia’s renewable energy goals, supporting the state’s target of achieving 100% clean energy by 2050. The project is anticipated to avoid approximately 2.2 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, equivalent to removing over 1 million cars from the road each year.
Background and Significance
Initiated in 2013, the CVOW project is a significant step in the United States’ offshore wind energy sector. It is the first offshore wind farm in the U.S. to be developed by a state public utility company, Dominion Energy, and the first to be installed in federal waters. The project is a cornerstone of Virginia’s clean energy strategy, aligning with the state’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable energy sources. The successful completion of CVOW is expected to set a precedent for future offshore wind projects in the U.S., demonstrating the viability and benefits of large-scale offshore wind energy production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project?
The CVOW project is a 2.6-gigawatt offshore wind farm located approximately 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach, Virginia. It consists of 176 wind turbines and is expected to power up to 660,000 homes upon completion.
When is the CVOW project expected to begin generating electricity?
The CVOW project is on track to begin generating electricity by March 2026, with full completion anticipated by late 2026.
What are the economic benefits of the CVOW project?
Once operational, the CVOW project is expected to create over 1,100 permanent jobs and contribute approximately $210 million in annual economic output to the region.
How will the CVOW project impact the environment?
The CVOW project is anticipated to avoid approximately 2.2 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, equivalent to removing over 1 million cars from the road each year, thereby supporting Virginia’s renewable energy goals and commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
What is the significance of the CVOW project in the U.S. offshore wind industry?
The CVOW project is the first offshore wind farm in the U.S. to be developed by a state public utility company, Dominion Energy, and the first to be installed in federal waters. It serves as a model for future offshore wind projects in the U.S., demonstrating the viability and benefits of large-scale offshore wind energy production.
Key Features of the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Approximately 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach, Virginia |
| Capacity | 2.6 gigawatts |
| Number of Turbines | 176 |
| Estimated Homes Powered | Up to 660,000 |
| Expected Start of Electricity Generation | March 2026 |
| Full Completion | Late 2026 |
| Permanent Jobs Created | Over 1,100 |
| Annual Economic Output | Approximately $210 million |
| Annual CO₂ Emissions Avoided | Approximately 2.2 million tons |
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Author: VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER
The VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionvanews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Virginia and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Virginia Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia and the Home Builders Association of Virginia, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Williams Mullen. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
