The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has released a Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) aimed at evaluating potential mitigation for the development of offshore wind lease areas along California's coastline.
This statement is part of the Notice of Availability (NOA) published in the Federal Register, marking the beginning of a 90-day public comment period.
Covering over 373,268 acres, the proposed offshore leases could yield over 4.6 GW of wind energy, supporting the Biden administration's clean energy objectives.
BOEM director Elizabeth Klein invited feedback from stakeholders, noting, “Public input on our analysis will guide mitigation of future offshore wind energy development across multiple leases offshore California.”
Offshore Wind California, an industry advocacy group, praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to promote environmentally responsible offshore wind development in the state.
“This detailed regional environmental review will help ensure timely decisions can be made to advance floating offshore wind for the Golden State,” said the group.
The comprehensive review, they noted, will streamline future project approvals and support sustainable coexistence with marine life and local communities.
