The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement have finalized updated regulations for renewable energy development on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.
The final rule aims to reduce the costs associated with offshore wind development by modernizing regulations and streamlining processes, as well as clarifying regulatory provisions.
It also includes a process to regularly update a five-year offshore wind leasing schedule.
Final rule provisions include establishing a public renewable energy leasing schedule, increases survey flexibility and reforms BOEM’s renewable energy auction regulations.
“Today’s announcements are a significant step forward for the advancement of the offshore wind energy industry,” says Anne Reynolds, American Clean Power Association vice president for offshore wind.
“The final modernization rule will streamline the permitting process and reduce regulatory barriers for developers. It will also lead to greater collaboration between federal, state and local stakeholders, ensuring that offshore wind projects are developed in a sustainable and responsible manner.
“Additionally, the new leasing schedule announced by BOEM helps provide the needed business certainty for future planning, especially as we build out a domestic supply chain. We commend the Department of the Interior for accelerating the full potential of offshore wind energy in the United States.”
