This is an excerpt from EERE Network News, a weekly electronic newsletter.

December 19, 2012

Industry Interest Sought for North Carolina Offshore Wind Energy

The U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced on December 12 it is publishing a Call for Information and Nominations to gauge the offshore wind industry's interest in acquiring commercial wind leases in three areas offshore of North Carolina. It is also requesting comments regarding site conditions, resources, and other uses within the subject areas.

In consultation with the North Carolina Intergovernmental Renewable Energy Task Force, BOEM identified three areas on the Outer Continental Shelf offshore of North Carolina where commercial wind energy leasing could take place, totaling 1,441 square nautical miles. One area is located six miles from Kitty Hawk, and two areas are located seven and 13 miles from southern Wilmington. Each of the three areas has been designated to attract commercial offshore wind development while also protecting sensitive habitats and resources and minimizing space use conflicts. The call and a Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Assessment were published in the Federal Register on December 13, and BOEM will accept public comments for 45 days. See the BOEM press release and the call in the Federal Register.