Offshore Wind California has applauded the California Energy Commission's final strategic plan aimed at deploying large-scale offshore wind projects in the state, hailing it as a “watershed moment” for the sector's development.
“We eagerly await the Commission's final approval of the plan and the subsequent crucial steps to responsibly harness this extraordinary renewable energy resource off California's coastline,” the group stated.
The strategic plan, integral to AB 525 legislation signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2021, outlines ambitious targets of achieving 5GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 and scaling up to 25GW by 2045. Key components include investments in new transmission infrastructure, a multi-port strategy, streamlined permitting processes, robust supply chain development, workforce training initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and identification of suitable offshore areas.
California's legislative support for offshore wind was bolstered by the enactment of AB 1373 last fall, facilitating the procurement of long lead-time clean energy projects like offshore wind on a significant scale.
The state's proactive approach aims to capitalize on its abundant offshore wind resources, ensuring a sustainable energy future while creating economic opportunities and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The California Energy Commission's endorsement of the strategic plan marks a pivotal milestone towards realizing the state's offshore wind ambitions, setting the stage for substantial progress in clean energy deployment along the Pacific coast.
