The Maine Legislature has passed a bill advancing the state’s offshore wind industry, with Governor Mills expected to now sign the bill into law. The bill calls for Maine to procure 3 GW of offshore wind power generation by 2040, enough to power 900,000 homes and supply half of the state’s total electricity demand.

Currently, the federal leasing process is set to begin auctions in late 2024. The bill also contains provisions to support supply chain development and a construction port on Maine’s coast to be used for turbine assembly.

With waters deeper than those used for previously approved east coast offshore wind projects, development in the Gulf of Maine will consist almost entirely of floating wind turbines, providing a significant boost to the U.S.’s domestic floating offshore wind supply chain. The bill also contains provisions for lobster fishing in the Gulf of Maine and to prioritize jobs for Maine residents.

The Business Network for Offshore Wind released the following statement, which can be attributed to Carol Oldham, Northeast Director: “We would like to congratulate Maine’s elected officials for coming together to pass this historic advancement of offshore wind in Maine. Once signed into law, this bill will allow Maine and the broader U.S. to become leaders in floating offshore wind technology. We encourage Maine to work closely with neighboring states to develop the robust supply chain and port infrastructure necessary for these projects. The Network looks forward to Maine’s offshore wind development and the creation of clean, consistent, affordable electricity for its citizens.”