Graphic courtesy California Energy Commission (CEC)
The California Energy Commission has adopted a strategic plan to develop one of the state’s largest untapped sources of renewable energy. The plan calls for deploying floating offshore wind turbines off the central and northern coasts, aiming for 25,000 megawatts of capacity by 2045. This will power 25 million homes and advance the state’s goal of 100 percent clean electricity.
“Offshore wind has the potential to accelerate the clean energy transition by providing a consistent, reliable source of clean electricity,” said CEC Chair David Hochschild. “This effort supports our ambitious climate goals, creates local manufacturing jobs, and drives economic development. We are committed to harnessing this clean resource to ensure a sustainable energy future for all Californians.”
Currently, California’s electricity grid is served by nearly 35,000 MW of renewable resources. However, to meet the 2045 goal, the state will need an additional 148,000 MW, likely requiring the development of both land and ocean resources. Offshore wind is particularly promising due to the strong, consistent winds off California’s coast and its ability to produce electricity when solar power is less effective, such as overnight and in winter.
“Offshore wind will create thousands of new jobs for Californians, from manufacturing to maintenance, and build out a robust supply chain to support this growing industry,” said Dee Dee Myers, senior advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom and director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz). “Our commitment to offshore wind will bring sustainable growth, reduce our carbon footprint, and secure a cleaner, brighter future for all Californians.”
The CEC estimates that the development of offshore wind energy in California is expected to create over 8,000 jobs during peak phases, with many positions being unionized and offering stable, well-paying employment.
The strategic plan focuses on responsible development to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, while minimizing impacts on Native American tribes, ocean users, and marine wildlife. Floating wind energy technology particularly suitable due to deep offshore waters, which offer stronger wind resources and less seabed disturbance.
The CEC and partner agencies will engage with various stakeholders, including tribal governments, underserved communities, and environmental groups, to refine and advance the recommendations and strategies in the strategic plan.
Key highlights of the plan include recommendations on marine impacts, workforce development, impacts on California Native American tribes, permitting processes, and the development of port infrastructure and transmission systems. The plan also aims to enhance the reliability and resilience of California’s electricity grid by integrating offshore wind energy with other renewable sources like solar and hydropower.
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