The Biden-Harris Administration has announced the approval of the Maryland Offshore Wind Project, a major step forward in the US offshore wind industry. This project, led by US Wind, will generate over 2 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy, enough to power more than 718,000 homes. The Interior Department, approval marks the nation’s tenth commercial-scale offshore wind energy project, bringing the US closer to President Biden's goal of deploying 30 GW of offshore wind power by 2030.

With this latest approval, the US has now surpassed 15 GW of clean energy capacity from offshore wind projects. This is a significant leap, representing half of the total capacity needed to meet the administration’s 2030 target. The Maryland Offshore Wind Project, located approximately 8.7 nautical miles off the coast of Maryland, is a key part of this broader clean energy strategy, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and boosting the regional economy.

A milestone for US clean energy

"The clean energy future is now!" declared Acting Deputy Secretary of the Interior, Laura Daniel-Davis. She emphasized that this project aligns with President Biden’s bold vision to combat climate change and accelerate the US transition to renewable energy. “Our work to approve the nation’s first ten commercial-scale offshore wind projects is the result of the tenacious public servants at BOEM and the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to expedite the federal permitting process,” Daniel-Davis added.

Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has moved quickly to jumpstart the offshore wind industry, which had no commercial-scale projects before their tenure. Now, with ten projects approved, the US is on track to power millions of homes with clean energy.

The Maryland Offshore Wind Project is expected to generate significant economic benefits, supporting nearly 2,680 jobs annually over the seven-year construction period. “Today’s milestone marks another giant leap toward our ambitious goal of unleashing 30 gigawatts of offshore energy by 2030,” said Daniel-Davis. The project will also help reduce US dependence on fossil fuels by providing a clean, renewable energy source for the Delmarva Peninsula. Additionally, it will contribute to the US goal of reducing carbon emissions, as offshore wind projects are projected to avoid 78 million metric tons of CO2 annually once the 30 GW goal is achieved.

BOEM conducted a thorough environmental review of the Maryland Offshore Wind Project, including public consultations with local communities, Tribal Nations, and other stakeholders. “BOEM has responded to President Biden’s ambitious vision for a clean energy future with enthusiasm, innovation, and collaboration,” stated BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein. “We’re proud of the undeniable momentum offshore wind has gained under this administration, and we remain focused on fostering responsible energy development while protecting our oceans.” The project will adhere to measures designed to minimize potential impacts on marine ecosystems and local wildlife.

The growing offshore wind industry

The American Clean Power Association (ACP) hailed the approval as a significant milestone for the US offshore wind industry. “This is a milestone moment for offshore wind power for Maryland. Today’s announcement?follows extensive environmental analysis and review with stakeholder input, building on the industry’s commitment to developing clean power responsibly,” said Anne Reynolds, ACP Vice President for Offshore Wind. “In just four years, the US went from zero permitted offshore wind power projects to ten, representing real progress,” added Reynolds. With one project completed and five more under construction, the US is emerging as a global leader in offshore wind energy. This growth is expected to create tens of thousands of jobs and stimulate investment in local economies, particularly along the East Coast.

As the Biden Administration continues to push for renewable energy, projects like Maryland's Offshore Wind Project demonstrate the nation’s commitment to a clean energy future that benefits both the environment and the economy.