Governors' Wind Energy Coalition

The Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire Senate delegations are urging BOEM to do more research on the local environmental and economic impacts of offshore wind ahead of plans for a lease sale in the Gulf of Maine by 2024.

The bipartisan group of lawmakers noted the area off the New England coast holds considerable potential for clean energy development, but they want more data on how offshore wind could impact delicate ecosystems for animals including lobsters and whales, as well as more engagement with local communities on how the energy development will impact the local economy.

“As we work to advance offshore wind in the Gulf of Maine in a sustainable and fiscally responsible manner, BOEM’s efforts to bolster regional outreach and comprehensive wildlife and habitat data collection through the Environmental Studies Program with the best available science will be critical,” the senators wrote in a letter to BOEM Director Amanda Lefton.

Offshore wind projects have faced resistance from fishing interests, including a new lawsuit by the Responsible Offshore Development Alliance filed Monday against DOI over the Vineyard Wind 1 offshore wind project.