The US offshore wind industry has welcomed the passage of key legislation through the Delaware legislature that sets a 1200MW state target.
Trade group Oceantic Network said the Delaware Energy Solutions Act of 2024 encourages regional cooperation, and includes provisions that will allow for streamlined development of onshore transmission.
The Bill now heads to Governor John Carney, who has previously pledged his support, for final signature.
When signed into law, Delaware will join fellow East Coast states as an active buyer of offshore wind power generation with its new procurement goals and authority, said the group.
Passage will also allow the state to capture even more of the economic benefits sparked by offshore wind development, including well-paying jobs associated with the area’s developing offshore wind supply chain, it added.
“Passage of the Delaware Energy Solutions Act represents a pivotal moment for Delaware and an important milestone for the offshore wind industry up and down the East Coast,” said Sam Salustro, vice president of strategic communications at Oceantic Network.
“Delaware has always been an offshore wind pioneer and critical thought leader in the industry. The state now takes its rightful place as an active offshore wind state ready to play an important role supporting development of the regional supply chain.
“In addition to setting up a procurement process for the state’s first projects, the bill strengthens the wider market by creating processes for transmission siting so offshore wind energy can power people’s homes and businesses.
“Oceantic Network applauds Senator Hansen and Delaware’s stakeholders and advocates for advancing this legislation and encourages Governor Carney to fulfill his commitment to sign the bill. The Network looks forward to continuing to support the state in building a strong supply chain.”