Statement: Biden acts on Gulf offshore wind

AUSTIN – At a climate change event in Massachusetts today, President Joe Biden announced a new program to develop offshore wind power in the Gulf of Mexico for the first time. The Department of the Interior announced two proposed Wind Energy Areas, off the coasts of Galveston and Port Arthur, which have the potential to produce enough energy to power more than 3 million homes. 

Environment Texas Executive Director Luke Metzger has advocated for offshore wind in the Gulf of Mexico for more than a decade and will speak on the topic at the Houston Maritime Museum on Aug. 9. 
Metzger issued the following statement in response to the President’s announcement:

“It’s exciting to see offshore wind in the Gulf getting closer to reality. With strong winds in the evenings when we need energy the most, offshore wind in the Gulf of Mexico would greatly complement Texas’ onshore renewable energy resources, help bolster our shaky electric grid, and help our environment. With shallow, warm water, smaller waves, and existing offshore infrastructure and expertise, we’re well suited to develop this abundant, clean resource. I applaud the President and the Interior Department for moving forward with developing this incredible resource.”