BOEM Press release
On August 19, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) confirmed completion of Maine’s floating offshore wind energy research lease. The lease area covers slightly less than 15,000 acres in federal waters located 28 nautical miles off southern Maine. The state intends to construct and operate up to 12 floating offshore wind turbines, the first in the country, capable of generating up to 144 megawatts of electricity.
The research array will allow researchers to conduct studies to evaluate floating offshore wind as a renewable energy source. Research conducted on the array will evaluate its compatibility with existing ocean uses and assess its potential effects on the environment, supply chains, and job creation.
“Clean energy from offshore wind offers an historic opportunity for Maine to create good-paying jobs, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and fight climate change by cutting greenhouse gas emissions,” said Maine Governor Janet Mills. “This lease between the State and BOEM to support the nation’s first research array devoted to floating offshore wind technology is the result of extensive engagement with stakeholders and communities across our state to establish Maine as a leader in responsible offshore wind, in balance with our state’s marine economy and environment.”
BOEM received the research array application from Maine in October 2021. In May 2024, BOEM offered the lease to the state after completing a Final Environmental Assessment and associated finding of no significant impacts.
Construction activity on the research array is not likely to occur for several years. Maine is first required to submit a Research Activities Plan to BOEM, which will undergo environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act.
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