An environmental review of a proposed North Carolina offshore wind energy project has been announced.
According to the US Department of the Interior, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) will conduct the review.
As part of the review, the BOEM conducted public meetings in August 2021 to establish an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and identify critical issues around the project. Once approved, the project will be the first step in the state of Virginia’s plan to provide energy to 2.3 million homes through offshore energy by 2040.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said:
“Offshore wind is a critical component of this Administration’s commitment to confronting climate change, creating thousands of good-paying union jobs, and jump starting our country’s transition to a cleaner energy future. These states are stepping up and working together to lift up this growing industry. At the Interior Department, we are doing our part to ensure all of these projects are done thoughtfully and with consideration of impacts to surrounding communities.”
While BOEM Director Amanda Lefton said:
“The full economic benefits of offshore wind energy can only be realized if we all come together to advance responsible development of offshore wind. If approved, the Kitty Hawk offshore wind project will not only provide clean, reliable energy where it is needed most, it will help boost the region as a manufacturing and supply chain hub for the offshore wind industry.”
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