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Biden Harris Administration proposes Oregon & Gulf of Maine offshore wind auctions

By: Chloe Emanuel 30/04/2024 Department of Interior

General Windfarms

The Biden-Harris administration continues its push for a cleaner energy future with new proposals for offshore wind energy auctions, announced today by the Department of the Interior. The auctions, set to take place off the coast of Oregon and in the Gulf of Maine, are part of the administration's commitment to expanding offshore wind opportunities across the nation.

The Department of the Interior, through the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), revealed plans for two auctions that could potentially generate over 18 GW of offshore wind energy. This energy output is estimated to be sufficient to power more than six million homes, contributing significantly to the nation's renewable energy goals.

Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland, emphasized the administration's dedication to fostering a greener energy future while simultaneously creating jobs and supporting families. "Today's announcement represents another stride in our commitment to building a greener energy future while creating jobs and supporting families," stated Secretary Haaland.
The proposed auctions reflect a comprehensive planning process involving collaboration with various stakeholders, including Tribes, local communities, federal and state agencies, and ocean users. BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein highlighted the agency's commitment to collaboration and emphasized the importance of exploring offshore wind development potential from coast to coast.

Gulf of Maine Proposed Offshore Wind Sale

The auction in the Gulf of Maine Wind Energy Area marks the first-ever offshore wind energy auction in the region. The auction will encompass eight lease areas offshore Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, totalling nearly one million acres. These areas have the potential to generate approximately 15 GW of clean, renewable energy, powering over five million homes.

BOEM is seeking feedback on various aspects of the proposed lease areas, including their size, orientation, and location. The agency is also considering providing bidding credits to bidders who support workforce training programs or supply chain development, among other considerations.

Oregon Proposed Offshore Wind Sale

In Oregon, the proposed lease sale includes two lease areas with the potential to power more than one million homes with clean, renewable energy. The areas, located in the Coos Bay Wind Energy Area and the Brookings Wind Energy Area, total 194,995 acres.

BOEM has released a draft environmental review of potential impacts associated with offshore wind energy leasing activities for public review and comment. The agency is also seeking feedback on proposed lease stipulations aimed at creating good-paying union jobs and fostering engagement with stakeholders.

Progress and Future Outlook

The Department of the Interior has been actively supporting the growth of the offshore wind industry. With the approval of eight commercial-scale offshore wind energy projects and four offshore wind lease auctions, significant progress has been made towards the administration's goals.

Secretary Haaland recently announced a new five-year offshore wind lease schedule, which includes up to 12 potential offshore wind energy lease sales through 2029. Future auctions are anticipated in various regions, including the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Pacific, and offshore U.S. territories.

Additionally, updated regulations for renewable energy development on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf have been finalized, aimed at reducing costs and increasing certainty for offshore wind projects. These regulatory updates signify the administration's commitment to streamlining processes and fostering a sustainable offshore wind industry.

For more information about offshore wind farm projects across the globe, click here.

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Biden Harris Administration proposes Oregon & Gulf of Maine offshore wind auctions

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