California could feasibly and responsibly develop as much as 3 GW of offshore wind by 2030, 10-15 GW by 2045, and 20 GW by 2050, according to proposed targets from the state's energy planning agency.
The California State Assembly directed the California Energy Commission (CEC) to evaluate the maximum capacity of offshore wind development and establish planning goals for 2030 and 2045.
CEC released the draft goals on May 6 and must complete a final strategic plan for offshore wind by June 23, 2023.
Additional reports informing planners on the economic benefits of seaport investments and workforce development, as well as the establishment of a permitting roadmap, are due no later than Dec. 31, 2022.
Because of the deep waters along the U.S. Pacific Coast, floating offshore wind technology is needed to unlock California's 200 GW offshore wind development potential, according to an assessment by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
"(These goals) show that California is serious about going big on floating offshore wind to drive economies of scale and realize the substantial jobs, climate, and clean power benefits from responsibly developing this remarkable renewable energy resource," said Adam Stern, executive director of Offshore Wind California.
