The US Department of the Interior and Bureau of Ocean Energy Management are assessing the offshore wind industry’s interest in acquiring commercial wind leases off the coast of South Carolina.
They issued a call for information and nominations for four areas totaling more than 1100 square miles on the Outer Continental Shelf.
BOEM and DoI are requesting comments regarding site conditions, resources and other uses in and near the potential leases.
The initiative is part of President Barack Obama’s Climate Action Plan, which includes increasing renewable energy both offshore and onshore.
In addition, BOEM also published a notice of intent to prepare an environmental assessment for public comment on significant issues and alternatives related to the issuing of wind leases.
BOEM director Abigail Ross Hopper (pictured) said: “We are working with the state of South Carolina, industry and a broad range of stakeholders to ensure that commercial wind leasing is done smartly and in a manner that engages stakeholders throughout our process.”
Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell said: “We know South Carolina has important wind energy potential, and we will work with stakeholders through a collaborative effort to identify high potential/low conflict areas for development, supporting investment and jobs in South Carolina.”
Image: : Executive office of the governor, Maryland
