TL/DR –
It’s about to get breezy in the Central Atlantic! The US Department of the Interior is auctioning off 275,000+ acres for offshore wind energy – we’re talking enough power to keep over 2.2 million homes lit. And before anyone asks, no, this won’t harm wildlife; it’s all about responsible, renewable energy that also serves up jobs and protects our communities from climate change. Get your popcorn because this climate-friendly future looks wind-swept and wonderful!
US Offshore Wind Sale in Full Swing
US Department of the Interior (DOI) recently shook up the renewable energy scene with an offshore wind Final Sale Notice and auction for over 275,000 acres offshore Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.
The Central Atlantic Wind Energy Areas promise an impressive 6.3 gigawatts (GW) of clean energy, equating to the juice needed to power upwards of 2.2 million homes. The final green light required for DOI to hold the lease auction is scheduled for August 14 with 17 companies on-board to participate.
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is also in cahoots with the State of Maryland, seeking to expand acreage for offshore wind lease auctions in the Atlantic that will drive Maryland and other mid-Atlantic states to their offshore wind targets.
Oceantic Network CEO, Liz Burdock, chimed in, “BOEM’s tireless efforts to collaborate with states, meet offshore wind targets, and stimulate job growth, investment, and domestic supply chain expansion are commendable. Moreover, the slated three lease sales in 2024 will further fuel this progress.”
In the Biden era, DOI has approved the US’s inaugural eight commercial-scale offshore wind energy projects. BOEM has held four offshore wind lease sales, including offshore New York, New Jersey, and the Carolinas. Plus, the first-ever sales off the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico coasts. A schedule of up to 12 additional lease sales through 2028 is also on the cards.
If you’re concerned about the impact of offshore wind farm development on wildlife, Amber Hewett, senior director of offshore wind energy for the National Wildlife Federation, has you covered:
“Clean, renewable energy investments, such as offshore wind, offer a myriad of benefits. From job creation to climate change mitigation, we’re fully on board with this initiative. We’re eager to collaborate with our Central Atlantic partners to bolster offshore wind energy output while maintaining stringent wildlife protections and community engagement.”
Original Story at electrek.co
