Public backing for offshore wind power projects off California’s coast remains high, with 75% of adults expressing support, according to a survey released on Tuesday by the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC).
Support rises to 77% among likely voters and crosses party lines, with 88% of Democrats and 61% of Republicans favouring offshore wind and wave energy development, the PPIC’s July 2025 “Californians and the Environment” survey showed.
The figure marks an increase from 72% in 2019 and reflects strong approval across all demographic and regional groups. Among coastal residents, support stood at 77%, while 71% of inland residents also expressed backing for offshore wind.
The survey also found that 80% of Californians believe climate change poses a serious threat to the state’s economy and quality of life, with 62% reporting they are already experiencing its effects.
The findings come after California’s approval in 2024 of a $10 billion climate bond, which includes $475 million earmarked for port upgrades to support offshore wind development.
Last year, the California Energy Commission adopted a strategic plan targeting 25 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2045, representing 15–20% of the state’s planned new clean electricity and potentially powering up to 25 million homes.
Offshore Wind California said the plan “underscores the state’s commitment to climate action, clean energy, and energy security.”