U.S. Updates Offshore Wind Regulations to Boost Renewable Energy Development

The U.S. Department of the Interior has announced a final rule that modernizes regulations governing offshore wind projects in federal waters, which could help to boost the deployment of the projects.

The changes, implemented by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), are set to modernize and streamline regulations, reduce costs, and provide greater clarity for developers.

The updated rules are expected to result in approximately $1.9 billion in cost savings to the offshore wind industry over the next 20 years.

“By modernizing and updating these regulations, we are paving the way for the safe and efficient deployment of offshore wind projects,” said Interior Secretary Haaland during a speach at the 2024 International Partnering Forum.

Under the Biden-Harris administration, the Department has already approved eight commercial-scale offshore wind projects which combined have the potential to generate over 10 gigawatts of renewable energy.

The final rule includes a process to regularly update a five-year offshore wind leasing schedule. Secretary Haaland on Wednesday announced a new 5-year schedule with up to 12 potential offshore wind energy lease sales through 2028.

“This final rule incorporates lessons learned since we first published the offshore renewable energy regulations almost 15 years ago,” said BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein. “It will reduce costs and unnecessary burdens to industry, while ensuring that offshore renewable energy development is done in a safe and environmentally sound manner.”

The final rule entails several provisions such as eliminating unnecessary requirements for the deployment of meteorological buoys, increasing survey flexibility, improving certification and verification processes, and strengthening oversight of critical safety systems and equipment.

“Ensuring clean energy for America while keeping the environment and offshore workers safe is the primary objective of the new rule,” said?BSEE Director Kevin Sligh.?“BSEE aims to establish clear regulations that safeguard all forms of life and the oceans. From implementing a comprehensive safety management system to a well-thought-out Certified Verification Agent process, BSEE will efficiently regulate the production of clean, safe offshore energy for generations to come.”

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