The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is seeking nominations for possible wind energy leasing areas off the coast of the US Pacific territory of Guam (pictured).
BOEM has announced a Call for Information and Nominations, which will gather public comments to inform potential leasing areas.
The call comes after close collaboration with the government of Guam, which aims to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2035 and 100% by 2045.
“Responsible offshore wind development off Guam’s coast offers a vital opportunity to expand clean energy, cut carbon emissions, and reduce energy costs for Guam residents,” said BOEM director Elizabeth Klein.
“We remain committed to tackling the climate crisis, achieving President Biden’s energy goals, and ensuring economic opportunities for all, including under-served communities.”
The call will be published on Monday 6 January, initiating a 90-day comment period ending on 7 April. The public is invited to submit relevant information on site conditions, marine resources, and ocean uses near or within the call area.
Concurrently, wind energy companies can nominate specific areas they would like to see offered for leasing.
During the comment period, BOEM will engage with indigenous peoples, stakeholder organisations, ocean users, federal agencies, the government of Guam, and other parties to identify conflicts early in the process.
BOEM is seeking to identify areas where offshore wind development would have the least impact. This information will be used to significantly narrow the area to be considered for future offshore wind leasing.
BOEM will consider public comments and commercial nominations before designating specific wind energy areas (WEAs) within the respective call area.
If BOEM receives commercial interest in wind leasing offshore Guam, the next step will be to identify WEAs for leasing consideration within the larger call area.
After completing environmental reviews and consultations, BOEM may propose one or more competitive lease sales for areas within the WEAs.