The American Clean Power Association (ACP), the National Offshore Industries Association (NOIA), and the Business Network for Offshore Wind (BNOW) have come together to submit comments to the Bureau of Offshore Energy Management (BOEM) regarding its proposed Renewable Energy Modernization Rule. These associations represent over 51 GW of offshore wind energy capacity, which is essential to achieving the Administration's ambitious offshore wind goals.
In a statement, ACP Vice President of Offshore Wind, Josh Kaplowitz, emphasized the importance of the swift finalization of the modernization rule to fully harness the potential of offshore wind resources. He explained that the industry requires a regulatory structure that reflects how it works, and the proposed rule is a crucial step forward to achieve more domestic clean energy. It will help reduce pollution, make the country more energy-independent, and support local economies.
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The proposed rule aims to modernize the regulations governing offshore wind development by reducing administrative burdens, providing greater certainty and reduced costs for developers, and introducing more regulatory flexibility. The comments submitted by the associations amplify key elements of the proposed rule and make recommendations for further strengthening its aspects.
ACP supports BOEM's overall goals and agrees with the urgent need to reduce administrative burdens, costs, and uncertainty. The current regulations, which have remained largely unchanged since 2009, require updating to incorporate lessons learned over the last 14 years. This will help support the delivery of affordable, reliable clean energy to all Americans in an environmentally safe manner.
The offshore wind industry's growth is crucial to achieving a clean energy transition and combatting climate change. By working together, ACP, NOIA, and BNOW aim to ensure that the proposed rule provides the necessary regulatory structure to support the industry's continued growth and development.
Read the full text of the comments.
