The US Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has kicked off the permitting process for the Kitty Hawk offshore wind farm off North Carolina.
BOEM today published in the Federal Register a notice of intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement, opening a 30-day public comment period until 30 August.
The Bureau will review a Construction and Operations Plan submitted by Kitty Hawk Wind for the 69-turbine project that will make landfall in Virginia Beach.
Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland said: “Offshore wind is a critical component of this Administration’s commitment to confronting climate change, creating thousands of good-paying union jobs, and jump starting our country’s transition to a cleaner energy future.
“These states are stepping up and working together to lift up this growing industry.
“At the Interior Department, we are doing our part to ensure all of these projects are done thoughtfully and with consideration of impacts to surrounding communities.”
BOEM director Amanda Lefton said: “The full economic benefits of offshore wind energy can only be realized if we all come together to advance responsible development of offshore wind.
“If approved, the Kitty Hawk offshore wind project will not only provide clean, reliable energy where it is needed most, it will help boost the region as a manufacturing and supply chain hub for the offshore wind industry.”
BOEM will also hold three virtual public meetings during the consultation on 10, 12 and 17 August at 5.30pm, 1pm and 5.30pm, respectively.