Maryland advances offshore wind energy

The Department of Interior announced a memorandum of understanding between the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and Maryland, aimed at enhancing offshore wind energy development off Maryland's coast, in line with President Joe Biden’s clean energy objectives.

Gov. Wes Moore, Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland and White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi led the Friday signing ceremony in Annapolis. Moore emphasized Maryland's commitment to offshore wind and economic growth.

“Offshore wind means new manufacturing jobs, higher wages, and more opportunity to grow wealth for Maryland families…together we will build an economy that is both green and growing,” said the governor.

In recognition of the dedication shown by BOEM and Maryland, Haaland asserts Maryland’s pivotal role in maximizing the national benefits of offshore wind development. “Maryland will play an important role in helping achieve the Biden-Harris administration’s ambitious renewable energy goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy capacity by 2030,” said Haaland.

Haaland highlighted the partnership with the MOU to help with ongoing efforts to advance offshore wind projects by holding lease auctions, collaborating with the state and other stakeholders through the Central Atlantic Intergovernmental Renewable Energy Task Force, and supporting existing developments in the Central Atlantic.

In December 2023, the Biden-Harris administration and various federal departments and state officials committed to exploring wind energy areas off Maryland’s shores, aligning with Biden’s Investing in America agenda by improving infrastructure, attracting private sector investments in manufacturing and clean energy, and generating good jobs in the clean energy sector.

Zaidi reiterated the administration's commitment to accelerating collaboration with states like Maryland, adding that “this strong partnership will ensure American workers and communities reap the benefits of this growing industry.”