The California State Lands Commission, in conjunction with the ports of Long Beach and Humboldt, has established an official agreement aimed at promoting the advancement of floating offshore wind energy along the Californian coastline. This initiative is founded on a cooperative framework designed to enable significant enhancements to port infrastructure essential for supporting offshore wind operations.
Both Long Beach and Humboldt ports are in the process of developing terminal facilities intended for the assembly of wind turbines on floating structures. These structures will subsequently be towed to specified installation sites located 20-30 miles offshore from Humboldt County and Morro Bay. The California Energy Commission identifies these ports as vital locations for the effective execution of floating offshore wind energy projects within the state.
During the past year, the State Lands Commission has partnered with both ports to formulate a strategic alliance. This initiative aims to ensure the successful realization of these projects while also supporting California’s Native American tribes and historically marginalized communities, preserving ecological integrity, and encouraging community involvement.
According to State Controller and Lands Commission Chair Malia M. Cohen, “This crucial agreement lays the groundwork for the development of offshore wind energy, integrating principles of environmental stewardship, equity, public involvement, and economic growth, thus paving the path towards a sustainable energy future.”
The areas of collaboration outlined in the agreement are essential for the enhancement of offshore wind energy in California. The commission and ports will work together to align the development of staging and integration sites with broader offshore wind-related considerations, which include elements such as transmission systems, energy procurement strategies, workforce development, manufacturing capacities, supply chain logistics, technological advancements, and ocean area leasing.
