While the industry experienced significant macroeconomic challenges in 2023, Oceantic Network has been instrumental in guiding policymakers through the complexities of the offshore wind sector. Our behind-the-scenes efforts with the highest levels of federal and state governments have been pivotal to ensure that the perspectives and interests of our industry are both understood and considered.
We leveraged data from our Supply Chain Connect and Offshore Wind Market Dashboard databases to demonstrate and communicate the positive economic impact offshore wind development is having in states like Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York as they debated the best actions to support industry development. We also bolstered states as they pushed new procurement awards forward (like in New York) that are helping reset market expectations and establish a path forward that state leaders can take with confidence.
Furthermore, the Network maintained an active dialogue with various state agencies, the Department of the Interior (DOI), and the White House regarding the Central Atlantic Lease Area. We were a catalyst for action and worked closely with local and national partners to effectively communicate the need for robust lease areas and ensure states like Maryland and North Carolina can meet their offshore wind goals. Our hard-won commitment from the Biden Administration to continue leasing in the Central Atlantic bolsters our efforts to build a world-class regional supply chain.
Other policy and regulatory achievements include:
- Regulatory and Stakeholder Engagement: We submitted twelve state and federal regulatory comments educating decisionmakers about offshore wind’s unique needs and engaged with a broad spectrum of stakeholders across 14 states and 6 federal agencies, including prominent entities like the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Coalition Support and Advocacy: Our pivotal role in the enactment of Maryland’s 8.5 GW POWER Act and spearheading new initiatives in the Gulf of Mexico and West Coast solidified our standing as influencers in sustainable energy policy.
- Publications and Reports: Our 2023 Annual Market Report received commendation from the White House and our collaboration with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to produce Supply Chain Road Map for Offshore Wind Energy in the United States established new benchmarks for the industry.
- Working Groups: We worked with our members to convene seven Working Groups in areas such as data & digitalization, port & vessel financing, and coordinated transmission development. These groups have emerged as epicenters of expertise, fostering innovation and strategic partnerships.
Industry and Public Education
Member and stakeholder feedback informed us that one of the Network’s most significant contributions is helping small businesses navigate the complexities of entering the offshore wind industry. The Network’s industry education and training programs empower businesses to diversify into the industry to expand and strengthen the supply chain. Our educational endeavors have remained a cornerstone of our outreach. Noteworthy achievements include:
- 500 people attended the Foundation 2 Blade industry training
- 402 people participated in the Offshore Wind Ready program
- 2,000 people showed up for Offshore Wind 101 (a testament to the growing interest in our sector)
Public Education Collaboration
Our collaboration with Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore of Maryland for the Offshore Wind Experience Hub at the Perdue Henderson Junior Achievement Center is groundbreaking. This initiative is a dynamic model for developers, tier 1 suppliers, and others to use across the nation to educate youth and incite enthusiasm for offshore wind’s benefits. We anticipate educating over 15,000 students annually, in a geographical area that has been a hot bed for public opposition and NIMBYism.
Strategic Growth and Future Directions
As we pivot towards 2024, Oceantic Network remains committed to offshore wind and helping industry navigate existing and unforeseen challenges. Our 2024 priorities include:
- Implementing action items from the 2023 Leadership100 gathering, with a focus on state procurement best practices and better communicating economic benefits
- Advancing industry standards to ensure our members are industry pacesetters
- Supporting offshore wind’s expansion to the West and Gulf Coasts with events, networking, education, and supply chain advocacy
- Bolstering membership value communication to underscore the tangible benefits of our Network
