BOEM Seeks Input on Draft Wind Energy Area Assessment

Image via Bureau of Ocean Energy Management.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is seeking public input on a draft environmental assessment regarding an area near Morro Bay, California under consideration for offshore wind development. 

The draft released this week by the Bureau delves into the possible effects of future commercial leasing and other “site characterization and assessment activities” within the area, which is about 20 miles off the central California coast and encompasses about 240,898 acres or 376 square miles. The area, if developed, could generate up to three gigawatts of clean energy and power over a million homes, according to BOEM. 

“Before approving the construction of any offshore wind energy facility on a potential future lease in the Morro Bay WEA (Wind Energy Area), BOEM will develop an Environmental Impact Statement to analyze the specific environmental consequences of constructing and operating such a facility, in consultation with Tribes and appropriate federal, state and local agencies and with participation by ocean users, stakeholders and the public,” the agency explained in a statement. 

The public has until 8:59 p.m. PT on May 6 to comment. BOEM also plans to gather feedback at two virtual meetings scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. PT on April 14 and from 9 a.m. to noon PT on April 19. 

More information is available at www.boem.gov/morro-bay. 

By Karen Robes Meeks