California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed legislation that opens the state’s doors to offshore wind development.
AB 525, introduced by assembly member David Chiu, will require the California Energy Commission to establish offshore wind goals for 2030 and 2045.
It also requires the Commission to develop a strategic plan to develop the industry off California’s coast as part of the state’s overall goals to achieve 100% clean energy by 2045.
US Business Network for Offshore Wind western director Nancy Kirshner-Rodriguez said: “(The) signing of AB 525 by Governor Newsom marks the beginning of a new chapter for the offshore wind industry in California and the Pacific Coast.
“Led by assembly member David Chiu, the California Legislature showed its strong support for floating offshore wind off the Pacific Coast as a reliable, renewable energy resource that can be monumental for our state, providing good jobs, manufacturing, and significant opportunities for the development of a regional supply chain.
“The Business Network for Offshore Wind has been championing the need for strong committed state leadership and we will be an active partner with the Governor and state leaders as we move offshore wind ahead.”