ACP Backs Federal Grant to Boost Offshore Wind Investment in Coastal Maine and Massachusetts

WASHINGTON D.C., July 16, 2024 – The American Clean Power Association (ACP) supports a first-of-its-kind proposal by Maine and Massachusetts for the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program. The states’ joint application seeks nearly $200 million to bolster critical port infrastructure essential for unlocking the potential of offshore wind in northern New England and is the only CPRG proposal focused on offshore wind development in the nation. 

“This grant award would catalyze offshore wind energy projects across New England, positioning the region as an industry leader,” said Anne Reynolds, ACP Vice President for Offshore Wind. “The development of this offshore wind network would stimulate significant private investment—more than ten times the amount of the original grant awarded. We commend the collaborative efforts of Maine and Massachusetts in pursuing these federal funds to advance critical offshore wind industry infrastructure in the United States.” 

The joint effort from Maine and Massachusetts aims to set a standard for interstate collaboration on offshore wind infrastructure development. Key components include the development of a purpose-built facility in Searsport, Maine, designed for floating offshore wind alongside coordinated efforts for port infrastructure and vessels across state borders. 

The Maine-Massachusetts initiative underscores the urgent need for both fixed bottom and floating offshore wind technologies necessary for our clean energy future and to meet increasing electricity demands driven by widespread electrification and economic growth.