Dominion Energy plans 220 turbine offshore wind project

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Dominion Energy wants to build what it says would be the largest offshore wind project in the United States off the Virginia coast.

The company told The Associated Press ahead of a public announcement Thursday that it is seeking regulatory approval to build about 220 wind turbines in federal waters it has already leased 27 miles (43 kilometers) off Virginia Beach.

Dominion says the approximately $7.8 billion project would produce more than 2,600 megawatts of wind energy by 2026, enough to power 650,000 homes. The company says that early cost estimate is expected to fall.

Dominion currently has a two turbine pilot project underway. It says ocean survey work could begin on the commercial-scale project next year.

The company says the project is part of its commitment to increase the amount of power generation from renewable resources.