The BlueGreen Alliance Comments on the Draft Environmental Assessment to Consider Potential Offshore Wind Leasing in Federal Waters of the Gulf of Mexico
Offshore wind energy presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to advance this mission if developed in an environmentally responsible manner, with high road labor standards and attention to environmental justice. Robust NEPA analysis plays an integral role in guiding offshore wind development and ensuring the industry realizes its transformative potential as a solution to the intersecting environmental, health, and economic crises of our time.
When done right, offshore wind power will combat impacts of the climate crisis while creating tens of thousands of high-quality, family-sustaining jobs. Lease stipulations requiring that projects be constructed under PLAs and utilizing domestic content are key to achieving a high road industry and contributing to national security, worker safety, environmental protection, and a fair return to the United States. Investments in workforce training programs and domestic manufacturing of content used in the construction of offshore wind projects are also necessary for ensuring that we attain the maximum employment potential of this promising industry, with quality, family-sustaining, union jobs. And, throughout every phase of development, responsible siting and construction methods should be deployed that avoid, minimize, and mitigate adverse impacts to the environment.
See the comments.