For Immediate Release: July 26, 2023
Media Contact: Luke Jeanfreau | [email protected] | 504-444-3766
BALTIMORE – In pursuit of 100 percent clean energy by 2024, the Maine Legislature late yesterday passed a bill advancing the state’s offshore wind industry, with Governor Mills expected to now sign the bill into law. The bill calls for Maine to procure 3 GW of offshore wind power generation by 2040, enough to power 900,000 homes and supply half of the state’s total electricity demand. Currently, the federal leasing process is set to begin auctions in late 2024. The bill also contains provisions to support supply chain development and a construction port on Maine’s coast to be used for turbine assembly.
With waters deeper than those used for previously approved east coast offshore wind projects, development in the Gulf of Maine will consist almost entirely of floating wind turbines, providing a significant boost to the U.S.’s domestic floating offshore wind supply chain. The bill also contains provisions for lobster fishing in the Gulf of Maine and to prioritize jobs for Maine residents.
The Oceantic Network released the following statement, which can be attributed to Carol Oldham, Northeast Director:
“We would like to congratulate Maine’s elected officials for coming together to pass this historic advancement of offshore wind in Maine. Once signed into law, this bill will allow Maine and the broader U.S. to become leaders in floating offshore wind technology. We encourage Maine to work closely with neighboring states to develop the robust supply chain and port infrastructure necessary for these projects. The Network looks forward to Maine’s offshore wind development and the creation of clean, consistent, affordable electricity for its citizens.”
Additional Information:
For more information or to arrange an interview with the Network, contact Luke Jeanfreau at [email protected] or 504-444-3766.
As a non-profit organization, the Oceantic Network’s driving purpose is to inform, coordinate, and mobilize human ingenuity, enterprise, and labor to take advantage of the urgent need to tap the vast offshore wind and renewable energy resources that lie in the world’s oceans. The collective, coordinated efforts of our 600+ members equip communities and nations to accelerate the transition to clean energy and create economic opportunities.
