WASHINGTON, DC — In a groundbreaking moment for the American offshore wind industry, today the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) held a historic lease auction in the Gulf of Maine, marking the first time floating offshore wind technology will be deployed in U.S. waters. Four lease areas off the coast of Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire sold for nearly $22 million — and these areas have the potential to generate enough renewable energy to power more than 2.3 million homes.

“This is a pivotal moment for floating offshore wind,” said Hillary Bright, Executive Director of Turn Forward. “Today’s lease sale further demonstrates that offshore wind energy can be a critical part of the nation’s energy future, and that there is enthusiasm to harness this renewable resource. With these new leases in hand, developers can continue to advance transformative offshore wind projects for New England, moving the region toward a future powered by more clean energy, creating thousands of jobs and securing a resilient energy grid for generations to come.”

Floating offshore wind technology unlocks access to deeper waters in the Gulf of Maine, allowing wind farms to be built far offshore where winds are stronger and more consistent. This cutting-edge technology opens a new frontier for clean energy in the U.S., positioning New England as a global leader in offshore wind development.

Developing offshore wind energy in the Gulf of Maine is expected to bring numerous economic and environmental benefits to the region, including high-quality jobs and clean, reliable electricity. According to a 2024 study by the Union of Concerned Scientists, offshore wind energy can significantly reduce the risk of electricity blackouts, providing critical protection during severe winter storms.

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Turn Forward is an independent, non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to advancing an ambitious vision for American offshore wind power that meets today’s climate, economic, equity and environmental challenges.

For media inquiries, please reach out to media@turnforward.org.