Carper Addresses Environment and Energy Study Institute’s Briefing, Offshore Wind: Can the U.S. Catch Up with Europe?

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), a long-time supporter of offshore wind technology, addressed participants in the Environmental and Energy Study Institute’s (EESI) briefing on the status of offshore wind energy projects in the United States in comparison to our European neighbors, who have deployed more than 50 offshore wind projects since 1991.

Industry has shown tremendous interest in developing offshore wind in the United States, and Congress should do all it can to encourage the adoption of this emerging clean technology. The briefing included a panel of experts who examined how the United States could continue building momentum for investments in offshore wind energy.

“Offshore wind energy means reliable, homegrown power, cleaner air, and good-paying American jobs – it’s a win-win-win,” Sen. Carper said. “I believe there is broad consensus in Congress that offshore wind can provide greater energy security and more opportunities for economic growth. To harness the clean power of offshore wind and reap its economic benefits, we need to provide a nurturing environment to get this industry off the ground.”

Earlier this year, Senator Carper was joined by Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) to introduce the Incentivizing Offshore Wind Power Act, which would provide financial incentives to encourage investment in offshore wind energy. The legislation would create an investment tax credit that is redeemable for the first 3,000 megawatts of offshore wind facilities placed into service, amounting to approximately 600 wind turbines.

“Senator Collins and I introduced the Incentivizing Offshore Wind Power Act to help give the industry the boost it needs to grow and thrive,” Sen. Carper continued. “A tax credit for the first actors will encourage private sector development of offshore wind facilities across the country, and help move the United States closer to energy independence.”