US designates wind energy area off central California

(WASHINGTON) — As part of the Biden administration’s efforts to advance clean energy development, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) on Nov. 12 announced its designation of the Morro Bay Wind Energy Area (WEA) off the coast of California. The WEA is located approximately 20 miles offshore the central California coastline and contains approximately 240,898 acres (376 square miles).

BOEM will now prepare an environmental assessment (EA), as required under the National Environmental Policy Act, to consider potential impacts from site characterization activities (e.g., biological, archeological, geological, and geophysical surveys) and site assessment activities (e.g., installation of meteorological buoys) within the WEA. BOEM’s preparation of the EA will initiate a public comment period along with two virtual public meetings.

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management photo

“Offshore wind presents a significant opportunity for California and our nation as we transition to clean, renewable energy. Today’s announcement represents significant progress toward that future,” said BOEM Director Amanda Lefton. “As the process continues, BOEM is committed to environmental reviews, which are critical for a strong resource management program, and to robust public engagement.”

BOEM completed its review of a construction and operations plan (COP) for the Vineyard Wind project earlier this year and is currently reviewing 10 additional COPs. Moreover, BOEM plans to review at least an additional five COPs by 2025, for a total of at least 16 COP reviews representing more than 19 gigawatts of clean energy.

The 60-day public comment period began on Nov. 12 and will extend through 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Jan. 11, 2022. BOEM will hold two virtual public meetings during this time.

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US designates wind energy area off central California