Atlantic offshore wind energy targeted

A report released by the National Wildlife Foundation highlights the potential of U.S. states on the Atlantic Ocean to generate electricity from offshore wind -- and calls upon state leaders to take action to promote offshore wind development.

The 24-page report, Catching the Wind: State Actions Needed to Seize the Golden Opportunity of U.S. Offshore Wind Power, describes responsibly developed offshore wind as "a golden opportunity to meet our coastal energy needs with a clean, local resource that will spur investments in local economies."  In particular, the Atlantic coast offers a high-quality wind resource in close proximity to power-thirsty coastal cities.

Key findings in the report include:

• Offshore winds off New England and New York blow consistently during periods of high electric demand, including summer heat waves and winter cold snaps.
• Federal environmental reviews are complete for over 1.5 million acres of Atlantic sea space, with over 16,000 megawatts of potential wind capacity.
• Diversifying states' energy mix with offshore wind can reduce prices and offset volatility, citing a 2014 study showing New England would save $350 million per year in reduced energy costs, or 2%, if 1,200 megawatts of offshore wind is added.
• Offshore wind reduces air pollution, including carbon emissions.
• Offshore wind development creates jobs, and can be done in an environmentally responsible manner.

The report highlights Massachusetts and Rhode Island as leading America's pursuit of offshore wind, followed by Maryland, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware, with Maine, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia bringing up the rear.  New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Florida are noted as "states to watch" with no offshore wind planning activities.

The report calls on state leaders to:

• Set a bold goal for offshore wind in the state's energy plan.
• Take action to ensure a competitive market for offshore wind power.
• Advance power contracts for offshore wind.
• Ensure an efficient, transparent, and environmentally responsible offshore wind leasing process that protects wildlife.
• Invest in key research, initiatives, and infrastructure needed to spur offshore wind development.

Will Atlantic states develop their offshore wind resources?