The US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has released its draft Environmental Assessment for the potential issuance of an offshore wind research lease in the Gulf of Maine.
The state of Maine requested the research lease for the purpose of researching potential floating offshore wind development.
The research site lies 20 nautical miles (37km) off the coast of Maine, roughly southeast of Portland, and if developed would comprise up to 12 floating offshore wind turbines capable of generating up to 144MW of renewable energy.
A 30-day public comment period will follow, ending on 21 August, 2023. After BOEM considers public comments submitted during the review period, BOEM will publish a final EA. The EA will inform BOEM’s decision on whether to issue the research lease.
“BOEM is committed to maintaining open and transparent communication and values this opportunity for public input to help inform any future decisions,” said BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein. “We look forward to hearing from our Tribal and government partners, as well as all stakeholders and ocean users, as we move forward with this process.”