The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) in the US will reintroduce two offshore wind grant programmes in 2022.
The Maryland Offshore Wind Capital Expenditure Grant Program and the Maryland Offshore Wind Workforce Training Grant Program are designed to establish an offshore wind supply chain in the state.
The $2.8m in available funding will be focused on supporting local businesses including those that are small, minority, and women-owned businesses and which are involved in the expansion of clean, renewable, offshore wind energy.
The application deadline for both programmes is 1 February 2022.
“Offshore wind presents a once in a generation opportunity for the State of Maryland to grow and diversify our economy and energy portfolio,” said Governor Larry Hogan.
“The job creation potential and associated economic benefits for the broader supply chain of offshore wind development is an absolute game changer. “
Maryland aims to develop approximately 1.6GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030.
So far, 368MW has been approved through the Maryland Public Service Commission’s Round 1 Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Credit (OREC) programme.
The commission is reviewing additional offshore wind project applications submitted through the Round 2 OREC programme with a decision expected by 18 December 2021.