The Biden administration approves its 10th offshore wind project, marking a significant milestone in its ambitious renewable energy agenda.
At a Glance
- Biden-Harris Administration reaches 15 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity
- US Wind project off Maryland to power up to 770,000 homes
- $7.3 billion in clean energy investments announced for rural electrification
- Goal set for 30 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity by 2030
- Investments aim to create jobs, strengthen supply chains, and address climate change
Offshore Wind Milestone Achieved
The Biden-Harris Administration has reached a significant milestone in its renewable energy agenda by approving its 10th offshore wind project. This approval brings the total offshore wind capacity to 15 gigawatts, marking substantial progress towards the administration’s goal of 30 gigawatts by 2030. The latest project, US Wind off the coast of Maryland, is set to provide 2,200 megawatts of renewable energy, capable of powering up to 770,000 homes.
The administration’s efforts extend beyond just energy production. These projects are expected to create thousands of jobs, establish new industries, and strengthen supply chains while addressing climate change. The Department of the Interior has been instrumental in this push, holding five offshore wind lease auctions and adding over 1.3 million acres for development.
"The Biden-Harris administration is building momentum every day for our clean energy future, and today’s milestone is yet another step toward our ambitious goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore energy by 2030" – @SecDebHaalandhttps://t.co/NWKd8WJBkC
— US Interior Press Team (@USInteriorPress) July 3, 2024
Rural America’s Clean Energy Boost
In a parallel initiative, the Biden-Harris Administration has announced a $7.3 billion investment in clean energy for rural electrification. This investment, the largest since the New Deal, is part of the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program, funded by the President’s Inflation Reduction Act. The program aims to benefit approximately 5 million rural households across 23 states, representing about 20% of the nation’s rural households.
“Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we are supporting a more prosperous future for rural communities by speeding up the transition to clean energy while at the same time keeping monthly bills low and investing in the American workforce with new jobs and apprenticeships.” – Secretary Vilsack – Source
The investments are expected to build over 10 gigawatts of clean energy, reducing greenhouse gasses by 43.7 million tons annually. The initiative encompasses various clean energy sources, including wind, solar, nuclear, and hydropower, along with investments in grid infrastructure and battery storage.
It’s here.
Today, we’re unveiling a BRAND NEW interactive map showcasing the country’s clean energy investments in batteries, EVs, offshore wind, and solar since President Biden took office.
See how the U.S. is reclaiming its manufacturing leadership: https://t.co/53X6XYLR9D pic.twitter.com/YnDKRhGUiS
— U.S. Department of Energy (@ENERGY) September 14, 2023
Economic and Environmental Impact
The administration’s renewable energy push is not just about environmental sustainability; it’s also a significant economic driver. The offshore wind projects alone are projected to support 77,000 jobs and generate $12 billion annually in private investment when the 30-gigawatt goal is achieved. Similarly, the rural electrification projects are expected to create over 4,500 permanent jobs and 16,000 construction jobs.
“The Inflation Reduction Act makes the largest investment in rural electrification since FDR and the New Deal in the 1930s.” – John Podesta
These initiatives align with the administration’s broader climate action plan, aiming for significant carbon emission reductions. The offshore wind projects alone are expected to avoid 78 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the investments are designed to benefit disadvantaged communities, in line with the administration’s Justice40 Initiative.
💨 ⚡ NEWS: In the latest step by the Biden-Harris administration to support the growing momentum across America for a clean energy economy, @Interior today announced Oregon’s first offshore wind energy lease sale.https://t.co/jmMlz7FkGJ
— US Interior Press Team (@USInteriorPress) August 29, 2024
Looking Ahead
As President Biden approaches the latter part of his term, these renewable energy initiatives are crucial for solidifying his environmental legacy. The administration is not slowing down, with plans for up to 12 more offshore wind lease sales by 2028 and a goal of 15 gigawatts of floating offshore wind capacity by 2035. These ambitious targets, coupled with significant investments in infrastructure and workforce development, underscore the administration’s commitment to transforming America’s energy landscape and addressing climate change.
Sources:
- FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Hits Offshore Wind Milestone, Continues to Advance Clean Energy Opportunities
- Biden-Harris Administration Announces $7.3 Billion in Clean Energy Investments from the Investing in America Agenda, Largest Investment in Rural Electrification Since the New Deal
- Biden Admin Races to Shell Out Billions for Clean Energy
