While the US offshore wind scene has often been divided along partisan lines, a fascinating development is brewing in the deep-red state of Louisiana.
Louisiana’s Advantage:
- Leveraging existing expertise: Louisiana’s established oil and gas industry provides a skilled workforce and supply chain readily adaptable to offshore wind, creating new opportunities for local stakeholders.
- Decarbonization push: The state’s ammonia fertilizer industry sees green hydrogen as a key player in its decarbonization goals, further fueling the demand for renewable energy sources like offshore wind.
The Two New Projects:
- Diamond Offshore Wind La (DOW Wind): Backed by industry giant Mitsubishi, this project promises a 6,162-acre wind farm off the coast of Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes.
- Cajun Wind: Under the wing of renowned developer Vestas, this project will span 59,653 acres off the coast of Cameron Parish.
Governor Edwards’ Emphasis:
While acknowledging the environmental benefits, Governor Edwards strategically focuses on the economic potential, positioning offshore wind as a “natural fit” for Louisiana’s “working coast.” This approach, emphasizing job creation and economic growth, likely played a key role in garnering support for the projects.
Beyond State Waters:
These leases in state waters could pave the way for wider development in the Gulf. While Texas’s initial attempt at federal leases fell flat, Louisiana secured one with RWE Offshore Wind for a potential 2 gigawatts of capacity. RWE’s commitment to integrating the existing workforce and supply chain further strengthens the narrative of economic development.
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The Future of Gulf Wind:
- Texas’s potential re-entry: With RWE’s presence and the economic benefits becoming evident, Texas might reconsider its stance on offshore wind.
- Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida: NREL’s 2020 study identified potential lease areas in these states, though Florida’s progress seems stalled. Louisiana’s success could encourage them to reconsider.
- Governor Landry’s stance: The recent election of Jeff Landry, who has dismissed climate change as a “hoax,” throws a curveball at Louisiana’s wind ambitions. However, the economic potential of the industry might still hold sway.
In conclusion, the development of offshore wind in Louisiana presents a fascinating case study on the interplay of politics, economics, and environmental concerns. While the road ahead may be bumpy, Louisiana’s progress offers a glimmer of hope for wider adoption of offshore wind in the Gulf of Mexico, potentially breaking down the traditional red-blue divide and ushering in a new era of clean energy.
