73% Louisiana voters approve offshore wind revenue system, California voters inject $475 million into ports
For Immediate Release: November 12, 2024
Media Contact: Luke Jeanfreau | [email protected] | 504-302-8079
BALTIMORE — While the presidential election stole the spotlight last week, voters in Louisiana, Rhode Island and California overwhelmingly supported state-specific offshore wind ballot measures, highlighting the U.S. offshore wind industry’s support across three different coasts. These measures will fund necessary long-term infrastructure projects to support the buildout of offshore wind energy in each region, creating new jobs and economic activity.
In California, voters passed a $10 billion climate bond, including over $800 million in directed funding for offshore wind ports and state transmission improvements. These funds will help advance the construction of the Ports of Long Beach and Humboldt, providing the foundation for California’s offshore wind industry for decades while creating new manufacturing and supply chain opportunities.
In Louisiana, over 73% of voters supported a constitutional amendment directing federal revenue from offshore wind lease sales to be treated similarly to offshore oil and gas lease sale revenue and directed to the state coastal protection and restoration fund. Louisiana already has a significant offshore wind supply chain presence, and this vote creates a framework that will allow the state to increase its industry involvement.
Finally, in Rhode Island, voters approved a state bond measure totaling $53 million to support the state’s energy sector. That includes $15 million for important improvements to the Port of Davisville that will ensure it is prepared to serve as a long-term operations & maintenance hub for many of the offshore wind projects being developed in New England.
“Voters are responding to the U.S. offshore wind industry’s demonstrated economic benefits by overwhelmingly supporting long-term investments in their regions,” said Nancy Kirshner-Rodriguez, senior director of policy and outreach at Oceantic Network. “Creating these additional policy support structures will enable California, Louisiana, and Rhode Island to realize the significant economic impacts that offshore wind energy is already delivering, including driving local investments and creating new jobs.”
For more information or to arrange an interview with an Oceantic spokesperson, contact Luke Jeanfreau at [email protected] or 504-302-8079.
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As a non-profit organization, Oceantic Network strives to help businesses find success in offshore wind and other ocean renewable industries. We’re mobilizing governments, corporations, and organized labor to take advantage of the vast offshore wind and renewable energy resources that lie in the world’s oceans. The collective, coordinated efforts of our 400+ members are equipping American communities with the tools they need to accelerate the transition to clean energy and create economic opportunities. For more information about Oceantic membership, products and services, visit our website or follow us on LinkedIn.
