CEA Applauds BOEMRE Efforts to Streamline Offshore Wind Leasing
Decision Closes Week of Debate, Support for Domestic Energy Production
WASHINGTON — The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Enforcement and Regulation (BOEMRE) announced today its decision to finalize a rule that would eliminate a duplicate step in the noncompetitive leasing process for commercial renewable energy – allowing for accelerated development of offshore wind resources on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf. According to a statement from BOEMRE Director Michael Bromwich, the approach could cut up to a year off the leasing process for wind energy projects in the Atlantic. The final rule will be effective June 15, 2011.
In response to the Administration’s decision, Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) president David Holt released this statement:
“After an eventful week in Washington for producers and consumers of energy, CEA is encouraged to hear that the Obama Administration is mindful of how important a well-rounded, ‘all of the above’ approach to energy production is to Americans struggling to keep up with high gas prices and more expensive products. Wind power serves as an energy source ready to be produced here at home and can significantly contribute to a base of safe, secure and clean energy to keep up with ever-increasing demand.
“Partnered with the successful passage of the OCS bills yesterday on Capitol Hill — which will also play an important role in helping us reach a more efficient approach to offshore energy development — BOEMRE’s recognition of the vast resources that are waiting just beyond our shores is a step in the right direction.”
Speaking as a member of CEA, Michael Kearns, external affairs director at the National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA), released this statement:
“As a member of CEA and a representative body of companies committed to the expansion of all forms of offshore energy, the National Ocean Industries Association is very encouraged to see BOEMRE take the important step of committing to a more streamlined regulatory process for offshore renewables. We believe that the industry, the government, the economy and the American people all win when processes are as timely and efficient as possible and companies have the opportunity to expand into new areas.”
