Offshore Wind Wire

Last week, Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA) introduced the Advancing Offshore Wind Production Act (H.R. 2173). His district includes Newport News and Hampton.

Offshore Wind Wire: Please explain what the Advancing Offshore Wind Production Act (H.R. 2173) will achieve.

Rep. Rob Wittman: Offshore wind energy is an important component as we look to develop additional clean, renewable energy sources to power this country. Unfortunately, the process is often slowed for years by bureaucratic hurdles in the permitting process. While we must ensure that any development is safe and environmentally friendly, this can be done in a more efficient manner. The Advancing Offshore Wind Production Act (H.R. 2173) will speed the production of clean, renewable American energy by streamlining the process for the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to develop offshore wind power. Specifically, H.R. 2173 sets a 30-day timeline for the Secretary of the Interior to act on permits for all weather testing and monitoring projects in the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf. This bill will also streamline the environmental review process needed to place temporary infrastructure as long as the project is removed within five years, causes less than one acre of disruption at the location of each tower or device and causes no more than 5 acres of seafloor disruption within the proposed area for the project. The bill also requires coordination with the Department of Defense and other affected agencies so the projects do not disrupt national security, or other critical projects. That’s a critical component for the Commonwealth of Virginia, as we are excited to develop wind energy in the OCS, but also have a vibrant defense community.

OWW: What motivated you to propose this piece of legislation?

Wittman: I am a strong proponent of an all-of-the-above energy policy, and also a scientist by trade. We must continue to develop energy for this country, and allow innovators to develop clean energy. And as a scientist, I understand the need for measures to protect the integrity of our environment at the same time. We can achieve both efficiency and protection, and this bill helps us get there.

OWW: Do you anticipate that your colleagues in the House will support this legislation? Have you received any interest from potential co-sponsors?

Wittman: I am excited that this bill has already begun moving through the legislative process quickly. The House Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on this legislation on June 23, and we have already received the support of eight cosponsors from all corners of the country.

OWW: Aside from streamlining the permitting process, what else can the federal government do to support the offshore wind industry?

Wittman: Congress must continue to engage with the offshore wind industry to facilitate the further development of this important renewable energy resource.