Floating offshore wind facilities could help Oregon achieve its clean energy goals but face challenges ahead of potential deployment off the state’s coast, according to a new report by the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE).
The Oregon Legislature directed ODOE to conduct a study outlining the benefits and challenges of integrating up to 3GW of floating offshore wind into Oregon’s grid by 2030. The study found that floating offshore wind could bring compelling benefits to the state, including helping Oregon achieve its clean energy goals, strengthening grid reliability and resilience, and bolstering economic development in coastal communities, among others. The study also acknowledges significant challenges, including concerns about the effects potential offshore wind development could have on coastal communities, the environment, natural and cultural resources, and existing coastal industries like fishing, recreation, and tourism; technology, transmission system, and port infrastructure readiness; and complex siting and permitting challenges. While a thorough literature review and robust expert and stakeholder input provided a strong foundation for ODOE’s study, it also made clear there is a need for further study, engagement, and collaboration to more fully understand how floating offshore wind could affect the state.
