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Explore expert insights and industry perspectives on offshore wind energy from AOWA's network of thought leaders, innovators, and policy voices. Op-Eds Hurricanes & Offshore Wind July 10th, 2025 Written by Sarah McElman, Lead Consultant at Metocean Expert Americas. Read More What is a Geotechnical and Geophysical Site Investigation & Why Does it Matter? June 27th, 2025 Written By Creed Goff, R.G. and reviewed by Justin Bailey and Robert Mecarini from Alpine Ocean Seismic Survey, Inc. Read More After Empire June 19th. 2025 Written by Dawn MacDonald, Global Offshore Wind Sector Lead at AECOM Read More Let Developers Lead: The Smarter Path Forward For Offshore Wind May 30th, 2025 Written by Siniša Lozo, Director of Business Development at Naver Energy Read More Offshore Wind: The Reliability Anchor Hiding in Plain Sight May 16th, 2025 Written by Adrienne Downey, Director of Offshore Wind at Power Advisory LLC. Read More

Stay updated with AOWA’s latest press releases covering offshore wind industry news, training programs, and policy developments Press Releases AOWA Expands Globally as the Offshore Wind Academy (OWA) 08/05/2025 The American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) is officially expanding its reach globally as the “Offshore Wind Academy” (OWA) Read More Statement on Empire Wind 1 Project Pause 4/17/25 As President of the American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA), I express deep concern and strong opposition to the recent decision to halt construction activities on the Empire Wind I project—one of the most advanced, fully permitted offshore wind developments in the United States. Read More AOWA Collaborates with MassCEC: Targeted Offshore Wind Programs for MWBEs 2/12/25 AOWA is partnering with MassCEC, in developing targeted programs to empower woman and minority entrepreneurs (MWBEs) to succeed and become leaders in the clean energy space... Read More AOWA’s Statement on Executive Order Pausing Offshore Wind Leasing and Permitting 1/22/25 The recent executive order pausing offshore wind leasing and permitting is a serious setback to America’s growing offshore wind industry... Read More AOWA Announces 2024 Awards at the Floating Wind Solutions (FWS) Conference 1/17/25 In 2024 at American Offshore Wind Academy, we trained 400+ people from over 160 companies. There were a few who stood out to us for being professional development champions... Read More AOWA Launches New Podcast Series: Ask The Expert 11/01/24 In AOWA's "Ask the Expert" series, we sit down with a top offshore wind expert for a quick "coffee chat" on various offshore wind topics. You can join us directly on LinkedIn... Read More AOWA Sponsors ACP Offshore Wind Power Conference 9/28/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is a proud sponsor of the American Clean Power (ACP) Offshore Wind Power Conference... Read More AOWA Sponsors AFloat - American Floating Offshore Wind Technical Summit 9/24/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is a proud sponsor of this year's American Floating Offshore Wind Technical Summit... Read More AOWA Launches Scholarship Program 8/28/24 Empower your career with The American Offshore Wind Academy... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with UMaine 8/07/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Supports Reuters Event: Offshore Wind USA 2024 Conference 6/12/24 American Offshore Wind Academy is a proud supporting partner for Reuters Events Renewables: Offshore Wind USA 2024 conference... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with General Electric (GE Vernova) 4/17/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) 3/18/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with K&L Gates 3/12/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with Aker Solutions 3/05/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with 2H Offshore 2/26/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with Oceaneering 2/15/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with TGS 2/12/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More PES Wind: AOWA Takes Strides in Advancing Offshore Wind Professional Training 2/08/24 In a bid to foster excellence in offshore wind professional training, the American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) has been making significant strides since its launch last fall... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with Alpine 2/03/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Announces Partnership with Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) 2/01/24 The American Offshore Wind Academy is pleased to share our latest partnership updates... Read More AOWA Launched at ACP Conference 10/03/23 AOWA officially launched during the American Clean Power (ACP) Conference in Boston, heralding a new chapter in the offshore wind industry's commitment to empower the industry through education, training, and collaboration... Read More

Newsletters The Reef Effect: How Offshore Wind Benefits Marine Life July 24, 2025 This article highlights the "reef effect" phenomenon, detailing how these structures attract and support various marine species, from algae and shellfish to fish and crustaceans. It also discusses innovative approaches like 3D-printed reefs and nature-inclusive designs in scour protection, which further enhance biodiversity. Read More Offshore Wind: Future Ready Workforce July 18, 2025 SNAME MT Magazine: The Seafaring Workforce of Tomorrow Article: Offshore Wind Workforce Author: Thalia Kruger Read More Offshore Wind: The Only Practical Solution to Meeting New York’s Growing Electricity Demands June 5, 2025 A recent report by Aurora Energy Research says that offshore wind is key to meeting New York's power needs and improving energy independence. Read More Offshore Wind's Scaling Debate: Power, Progress, and Potential Pitfalls April 9, 2025 The pursuit of ever-larger offshore wind turbines reflects a powerful tension between the imperative for accelerated renewable energy deployment and the inherent complexities of scaling nascent technologies. While the promise of enhanced energy capture, reduced costs, and optimized resource utilization fuels this drive, critical questions emerge regarding technological reliability, infrastructural readiness, and supply chain resilience... Read More U.S. Offshore Wind: An Update on Near-Term Projects March 24, 2025 Rising costs, high interest rates, and supply chain issues have forced offshore wind companies to cancel or renegotiate contracts, while policy changes, including a presidential memorandum pausing leases, have caused project delays and financial losses. This article categorizes the current status of U.S. offshore wind projects, detailing those operational, under construction, approved, paused, or canceled, illustrating the sector's volatile near-term landscape... Read More Shell Pulls Back From Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind Project January 31, 2025 Shell has abruptly pulled out of the Atlantic Shores offshore wind project, writing off nearly $1 billion and casting a dark cloud over New Jersey's ambitious renewable energy goals. Facing rising costs and investor pressure, the oil giant is retreating from its once-promising venture in wind power... Read More Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project Continues Amidst Industry Headwinds January 27, 2025 The US offshore wind industry currently faces uncertainty due to a recent executive order halting new leases. However, construction of the $9.8 billion Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project continues. Dominion Energy remains confident in completing the 2.6 GW project by 2026... Read More Meet Charybdis: America's First Domestic Wind Turbine Installation Vessel February 7, 2025 The Charybdis, the first U.S.-built wind turbine installation vessel, represents a $715 million investment in American offshore wind energy. Built in Texas, this Jones Act-compliant vessel will play a crucial role in Dominion Energy's Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project and future East Coast developments... Read More Closing the Loop: DOE Report Charts Path to Sustainable Wind Turbine Recycling February 4, 2025 A new report from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) offers a roadmap for a more sustainable wind energy industry through increased recycling and reuse of decommissioned wind turbine components. The report, "Recycling Wind Energy Systems in the United States," reveals... Read More Beyond the Horizon: The Future of Offshore Wind is Floating February 26, 2025 Approximately 80% of the world's offshore wind potential lies in waters deeper than 60 meters (200 feet), a domain exclusively accessible to floating platforms. This technology therefore provides a crucial pathway to harness previously untapped energy reserves, propelling the clean energy transition. While challenges persist, the floating wind industry's rapid advancement, fueled by innovation and investment, signals its growing recognition as a pivotal energy solution... Read More Navigating the Waters: Offshore Wind and Whale Protection February 19, 2025 The offshore wind industry is taking concrete steps to minimize its impact on marine life. While we often hear claims that offshore wind development is responsible for increased whale mortality off of the U.S. East Coast, this is far from the truth. Recent studies tells us that the largest threat to marine mammals is vessel strikes and entanglement in abandoned fishing equipment... Read More AOWA Collaborates with MassCEC: Targeted Offshore Wind Programs for Minority and Woman Entrepreneurs (MWBEs) February 17, 2025 Are you a minority or woman entrepreneur (MWBE) interested in the burgeoning offshore wind industry? Take our 5-10 minute survey to help shape these valuable workshops, skills training, and networking opportunities... Read More Offshore Wind: Fueling Economic Growth Across the U.S. February 12, 2025 Offshore wind power is more than just a clean energy source; it's a catalyst for economic revitalization, creating a ripple effect of jobs, investment, and opportunity that stretches across the United States. While the turbines themselves capture the imagination of many, the true story lies in the intricate supply chain... Read More

Explore AOWA’s comprehensive offshore wind training programs. Find courses designed for professionals at every stage of their careers Upcoming Sessions Offshore Wind Operation and Maintenance Operation September 22-23, 2025 View Course Offshore Wind Transmission Course Technology October 14-16, 2025 View Course Floating Offshore Wind Masterclass Development October 23, 2025 View Course Auctions and Bid Strategies for Offshore Wind Development November 18, 2025 View Course Financing Offshore Wind From Auction To FID Financing Fall 2025 edition TBA - Enroll to stay updated View Course Offshore Wind Blade Testing and Inspection Workshop Safety Fall 2025 edition TBA - Enroll to stay updated View Course Offshore Wind Upskilling Course Development Coming Fall 2025 - Enroll to stay updated View Course Offshore Wind MetOcean Training Course Development Spring Session: May 12, 2025 Fall Session: On demand - Enroll now View Course OSW Risk Management, Insurance & Marine Warranty Surveying Development Spring Session: May 15, 2025 Fall Session: On demand - Enroll now View Course Performance Based Safety Management Systems in OSW Safety On demand - Enroll now View Course Offshore Wind Ports and Vessels Course Construction On demand - Enroll now View Course Offshore Wind Geophysical and Geotechnical Training Development On demand - Enroll now View Course Load more

Advisory Board of American Offshore Wind Academy Meet AOWA’s advisory board—industry experts guiding the future of offshore wind training and workforce development Board of Advisors Amy McGinty Vice President, Vestas North America Mandar Pandit Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, GE Grid Solutions Lydia Lostan Offshore Wind Director, EDF Renewables North America Jim Bennett Former Chief of The Office of Renewable Energy Programs, BOEM Serene Hamsho President, American Offshore Wind Academy Mike Starrett Chief Commercial Officer, Ocean Winds North America Adrienne Downey Principal Engineer and Country Manager, Hexicon North American Jay Borkland Supply Chain and Port Director, Avangrid Eric Thumma Head of U.S., Corio Generation Alla Weinstein Founder & CEO, Trident Winds Inc Theodore Paradise Energy Partner, K&L Gates

Explore career opportunities in the offshore wind industry. Find jobs, internships, and training programs with AOWA Join Our Team! 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American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) offers expert-led offshore wind training programs for professionals. Advance your career with industry-leading courses EXPERTS TEACHING EXPERTS View Courses 150+ SME Instructors 50+ Comprehensive Courses 21+ Training Partners 630+ Trained Professionals 30+ Countries We've Expanded! Check Out Our New Website Offshore Wind Academy (OWA) Industry Trusted Partners American Offshore Wind Academy The American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) is a pioneering initiative driven by offshore wind industry leaders who are committed to advancing and strengthening the sector. The Academy’s mission is to empower and advance the offshore wind industry in the United States and worldwide through comprehensive education, training, and collaboration. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and industry growth, the Academy strives to empower individuals, organizations, governments, and the broader offshore wind community to make a significant and lasting impact on the clean energy landscape of the world. STAY IN THE KNOW Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!

< Back AOWA Announces Partnership with UMaine 8/07/24 We are thrilled to announce a new partnership between the American Offshore Wind Academy and the UMaine Advanced Structures & Composites Center at the University of Maine. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing offshore wind energy education and research. AOWA will be utilizing the state-of-the-art facilities at ASCC to host its wind and wave workshops, bringing together industry professionals, researchers, and students to learn and innovate in the field of offshore wind energy. The ASCC’s cutting-edge technology and expertise will provide unparalleled resources and support for these workshops, ensuring a top-tier learning experience for all participants. This workshop will offer a unique opportunity to dive deep into offshore wind and wave dynamics, leveraging the world-class capabilities of ASCC’s facilities. Previous Next

Registration form for the training course: Offshore Wind Geophysical and Geotechnical Training First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Company / Organization Name Job Title or Position Country State, Region, or Province Address Confirm the course name Offshore Wind Geophysical and Geotechnical Training Are you applying as: * Individual Group Select the course date * Spring Session Fall Session By clicking submit you agree to our Terms and Conditions Submit Your application has been submitted. We will reach out to you to complete the payment

< Back AOWA Launched at ACP Conference 10/03/23 Boston, MA - ACP Wind Power Conference A groundbreaking training platform dedicated to supporting and nurturing the industry's growth. The American Offshore Wind Academy officially launched during the American Clean Power (ACP) Conference in Boston, heralding a new chapter in the offshore wind industry's commitment to empower the industry through education, training, and collaboration. A pioneering initiative driven by senior executives within the offshore wind industry who are committed to advancing and strengthening the sector. Recognizing the immense potential of offshore wind energy in the United States and globally, they come together to establish a groundbreaking platform dedicated to supporting and nurturing the industry's growth. The Academy is set to offer an extensive catalog of over 50 specialized courses covering various aspects of the offshore wind sector. These courses, designed to cater to industry professionals, span a wide range of topics from technology and innovation to project management and environmental considerations. The American Offshore Wind Academy is forging robust partnerships with key players in the offshore wind industry. These partnerships will bring industry expertise into the training program, ensuring that professionals benefit from real-world insights and practical knowledge. Serene Hamsho, President of the American Offshore Wind Academy, shared her insights into the Academy's goals. "The offshore wind sector is on the cusp of significant growth, but it faces a critical need for a highly skilled workforce. The American Offshore Wind Academy was conceived to address this need comprehensively. Our mission is to empower and advance the offshore wind industry, not just in the United States but on a global scale. We're excited to provide comprehensive education and training to professionals looking to make an impact in this dynamic field." The Academy boasts a diverse and influential Board of Advisors, comprised of key figures representing various facets of the offshore wind industry. Jim Bennett, Former Senior Advisor for Renewable Energy Program, BOEM, and current Advisor for the academy commented, "The Academy will help provide critical training opportunities for the workforce as this American industry grows toward its full potential." Adrienne Downey, Principal Engineer and Country Manager North America at Hexicon, said, “The American Offshore Wind Academy is bridging the gap between vision and execution for the offshore wind sector. Its comprehensive training programs will play a vital role in building the skilled workforce needed to support the industry’s continued growth and innovation." The American Offshore Wind Academy is a pioneering initiative driven by leaders and senior executives within the offshore wind industry. It is dedicated to empowering and advancing the offshore wind industry through comprehensive education, professional training, and collaboration. Previous Next

< Back After Empire June 19th. 2025 Written by Dawn MacDonald, Global Offshore Wind Sector Lead at AECOM Now that Empire Wind has gotten a reprieve from its unforeseen stop work order, the US offshore wind industry is releasing a collective sigh of relief and looking to rapidly get turbines in the water before the industry is again in the crosshairs. Not to rain on anyone’s parade, but while the industry pushes to get this next round of projects online, a bit of contemplation of ‘what’s next’ is worthwhile for those of us not on the front lines. The administration’s U-turn on the Empire Wind’s stop work order gives the US domestic offshore wind market some confidence that business pragmatism may ultimately outweigh the new administration’s opposition to the sector. The US market’s downturn could ultimately benefit the global OSW market, releasing pressure on stretched global OEMs and investors, however, the implications for long term confidence in the US market is unclear at this point. Impressive Progress to Date There are currently five commercial scale offshore wind projects (including Empire Wind ), in construction in the US, including Dominion Energy ’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) Commercial project, Ørsted ’s Revolution and Sunrise wind projects and the Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners / Avangrid Vineyard wind project. Barring any further interruptions to these late state projects, we should expect to see around 6 GW of offshore wind deployed on US coasts and injecting power into US grids by the end of 2027. Significant investments have been made in developing the supporting infrastructure to build this initial tranche of generation assets, including: A Jones Act compliant wind turbine installation vessel ( WTIV ), the Charybdis , as well as other smaller bespoke vessels. Multiple ports to support project construction and operations. (New Bedford Commerce Terminal in MA, Port of New London in CT, Port of Davisville in RI, The South Brooklyn Marine Terminal in NY, and The New Jersey Wind Port). Manufacturing facilities to build some of the key components of the projects like high voltage subsea cables in Charleston, South Carolina and Chesapeake, Virginia by Nexans and LS GreenLink respectively. While this is meaningful progress, it’s quite different from the level of development envisioned by the prior administration in implementing the Inflation Reduction Act and the level of investment predicted by the industry. With the recent changes in tax and regulatory policy, it’s fair to say the industry is generally not expecting substantial progress in regulatory approval or construction for the next three and a half years beyond the 6 GW mentioned above. So, what might a renewed view of US offshore wind look like to potential developers and states in 2028? Cautious Optimism Developers and investors who’ve collectively sunk billions into the market are likely counting on a couple points to support the ultimate return of the US OSW market. - A backlog of generation , particularly in the US Northeast: The region is currently largely powered by natural gas, nuclear power, and hydropower. Several of these existing power generation faculties are targeted for retirement over the next decade. Combined with the increased power demand driven by increased electrification and new demands like data centers, there is a significant need for new generation in the region, which the ISOs in the region had been looking to offshore wind to fill. Should the next phase of consented projects, including the next phase of Empire Wind and Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind , not progress through to financial close as planned, ISOs in the region will have a gap in the generation side of their long-range plans. What alternative technology can fill that gap? Per recent comments from the CEO of NextEra Energy Resources a, the US’s largest power developer, a new natural gas power plant would be looking at a deployment in 2030 or later , and a cost of $2,400/kW . Should this timeline and pricing hold true, the next tranche of consented OSW projects is likely to have a path to competitiveness come 2028. - More advanced technology : The current set of projects are generally anticipated to be using 14-15 MW turbines – a postponement of 4 years may allow developers to deploy the next generation of turbines with unit capacity of 18 MW or more. The US projects may also be able to benefit from future advancements in cables, electrical systems, foundation designs and installation technologies, giving them a potential benefit in terms of levelized cost of energy compared to todays estimates. - A more fully developed global supply chain : OSW projects around the world are currently suffering from significant pressure on the global supply chain, including critical HVDC infrastructure, vessels and other key components. Some of that stress was previously anticipated to be addressed through new manufacturing and assembly facilities in the US, backstopped by the domestic offshore wind industry and further supported by local content requirements and investment incentives as set out in the IRA and other policies. With the current project forecast and US policy changes, these OEMs are likely looking for more favorable investment environments, likely in Europe, the UK or Asia. Developers looking at US OSW developments in 2028 may be able to secure significantly better commercial terms from the supply chain based on reduced global supply chain pressure, however local content expectations may need to be revisited as OEM may be less willing to further extend there recently expanded manufacturing base. Objective Realism However, the set of 2028 US OSW projects will also face substantial hurdles. - Technological competition : While, as noted, OSW compares favorably on average to alternative technologies such as gas fired power, the current burdens on offshore wind business cases will undoubtedly support the advancement of alternative power sources including gas, micro and small modular reactors (SMRs) and possibly interconnectors for incremental electricity imports as utilities look to close the gap between demand and generation. As these alternatives technologies are deployed, their respective supply chains will be further developed, degrading the current cost and schedule advantage for offshore wind. - Investment entrenched in proven, stable markets : For all its recurrent challenges with short term OSW market volatility and uncertainty, looking over the long term, European jurisdictions have shown a steady commitment the offshore wind sector for decades. Investors, with their US projects on hold, or otherwise looking to invest in the industry, may divert their capital to more established European markets. Given the long-term nature of these projects, this likely refocus on Europe may well be ‘sticky’ leaving less capital available for reinvestment in US projects late in the decade should policy shift. - Further maturation of new jurisdictions : A four year pause in the US offshore wind sector may allow emerging markets some breathing space to develop, by opening up investment capacity and room in the supply chain for projects in Australia, South America, the Baltic, Canada and other regions early in their OSW development. This may enable some of these new markets to get a foothold in the global market, attracting investment from developers and OEMs. For the US, this may result in more competition for foreign capital if the market looks to restart late in the decade, and the US may need to reset its expectations in any future leasing rounds and procurement processes. - Increased perception of US regulatory risk : Underpinning all of this is the changing view of foreign and domestic investors into political and regulatory risk for US projects in the offshore wind industry and more broadly. Before committing development funds to multi-billion-dollar projects with decade long timelines, investors will need to quantify the risk that these prospective projects might be derailed by a future administration. That risk will be costed into the economic models, impacting pricing for future procurements, return expectations and project valuations. A Pragmatic Path Forward So where does this leave the US OSW industry? I’ll certainly be holding my breath alongside the rest of the industry looking for this first tranche of commercial projects to finish construction and start operations. Provided the permits for the next tranche of projects withstand the next few years, the proponents will likely face significantly different market conditions as they look to restart their projects in 2028. The uncertainty may lead some developers to look to divest rather than suspend their projects, leading to an increase in transaction activity as those market players with lower risk tolerance or less patience leave the market. While these are trying times, the US OSW may do well to look to lessons learned from prior, albeit less dramatic, downturns in the European industry’s history: Stem the bleeding : We’re already seeing evidence of the remaining projects putting their heads down, reducing spend and waiting for more favorable investment conditions. LinkedIn feeds are filled with key project staff who’ve been laid off to reduce project costs and discretionary development funding is being deferred until the market is improved. Retain key assets : While reducing development costs is essential, developers cannot lose sight of the need to retain key assets, including key project team members, relationships with regulators, utilities, ports and the supply chain. Long-term, the market rewards agility : Those projects that can continue to negotiate with suppliers, utilities and regulators to adapt their schedules, project scopes and contract terms will be better able to rapidly pivot as the market, regulation and trade policy evolve. Ultimately the winners, if we can call anyone that in this situation, will be the projects able to think creatively, collaborate with favorable states to retain sector progress where possible and adapt their strategies to meet the new reality. Previous Next

Registration form for the training course: Offshore Wind Blade Testing and Inspection Workshop First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Company / Organization Name Job Title or Position Country State, Region, or Province Address Confirm the course name Offshore Wind Blade Testing and Inspection Workshop Are you applying as: * Individual Group Select the course date * Spring Session Fall Session By clicking submit you agree to our Terms and Conditions Submit Your application has been submitted. We will reach out to you to complete the payment

< Back Offshore Wind: The Only Practical Solution to Meeting New York’s Growing Electricity Demands June 5, 2025 A new report from Aurora Energy Research , commissioned by the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACENY), concluded that offshore wind is the only viable near-term solution to address downstate New York's escalating energy reliability concerns. This finding is particularly urgent as the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) projects potential electricity shortfalls in New York City as early as this year. The urgency is underscored by a variety of factors straining the energy system in New York City and Long Island. These downstate regions face rising reliability challenges driven by significant transmission constraints, which make importing sufficient generation difficult and costly to expand. Compounding this, New York’s peak demand is forecasted to grow quickly, largely due to increased electrification, with winter demand seeing particularly sharp increases. Furthermore, tightening capacity margins are a critical concern; NYISO has estimated that New York City could experience a deficit of up to 461 MW for several hours in 2025 if the planned retirements of older, fossil fuel-fired generators proceed, highlighting an immediate need for new, local power sources. Finding enough land for new power sources in downstate New York is a major hurdle. This scarcity not only limits how much new energy infrastructure can be built but also significantly drives up construction costs. In fact, Aurora estimates it's about 1.4 times more expensive to build new energy projects in downstate regions compared to upstate. Offshore wind neatly avoids this problem because its power generation facilities are located out at sea, with minimal land use on the coast. This is a huge advantage for densely populated areas like New York City (Zone J) and Long Island (Zone K). Aurora's long-term modeling shows that New York will need approximately 15 GW of offshore wind by 2040. If the state tried to get the same amount of power from solar, it would need around 520 square miles of land. For land-based wind power, it would be about 680 square miles. Even if New York City tried to generate the needed electricity with traditional sources, it would still require developing 15 square miles of land (roughly 1,750 Manhattan city blocks). The report also notes that alternatives to offshore wind face significant challenges other than land use. For instance, developing new natural gas power plants (thermal generation) is severely hampered by shortages in essential components like gas turbines, leading to long project lead times that can extend up to eight years. This bottleneck is intensified by surging global demand for these turbines; GE Vernova , one of the world's largest manufacturers, reported a 90% increase in orders between 2023 and 2024, directly contributing to these extended timelines. Meanwhile, other potential zero-emission technologies, such as small modular nuclear reactors or hydrogen-fuel peaking plants, have not yet reached the commercial scale required to make a significant impact in the near term. Offshore wind is uniquely positioned to meet this growing demand. According to Aurora, it is the only net-new generation capacity currently in the queue for New York that can realistically add supply within this decade. To interconnect into the NYISO grid, projects are required to enter the interconnection queue (ICQ). Clearing the queue takes several years, giving an indication of all capacity likely to come online in the next ~4 years. While 1.8 GW of battery storage (BESS) and 1.3 GW of transmission could be online by 2027, offshore wind is the only net new generation capacity in the queue for downstate NY. "Offshore wind is poised to provide much needed relief to the tightening NYISO system," said Julia Hoos, Head of USA East at Aurora Energy Research. "Without offshore wind, we find that New York becomes increasingly dependent on importing power from its neighbors in New England and the Mid-Atlantic — and those regions face tight conditions at exactly the same time. Offshore wind can help alleviate this pressure and shelter New Yorkers from high energy prices associated with cold winters and fluctuating gas prices.” Key benefits of offshore wind highlighted in the report include: Enhanced Energy Independence: Developing in-state offshore wind reduces reliance on imports, particularly during peak winter periods when neighboring regions also face high demand. Consumer Cost Savings: Aurora estimates that if the Empire Wind 1, Sunrise Wind, and South Fork Wind projects had been operational during a single cold, high-cost month in 2022, New Yorkers could have saved $77 million in electricity costs. These savings are projected to be even higher in future winters. Land-Use Efficiency: To meet New York’s energy goals, approximately 15 GW of offshore wind would be needed by 2040. Generating the equivalent with solar or land-based wind would require over 600 square miles of land, a significant challenge in space-constrained downstate New York. Meeting Climate Goals: Offshore wind deployment is crucial for decarbonization, potentially leading to a decrease in the social cost of carbon by up to $1 billion in annual savings by 2040. Overall, the evidence strongly indicates that offshore wind is uniquely positioned to address New York's burgeoning energy demands in the most economically sound way. It stands out as the optimal path forward to maintain affordable energy prices, especially during challenging winter months, while simultaneously bolstering grid reliability and advancing the state's energy independence. With mounting pressure on the existing energy infrastructure and a scarcity of viable alternatives, the findings of the Aurora report underscore that investing in offshore wind is not just a timely and practical decision, but an essential one for securing New York’s energy future. Check out the full report by Aurora Energy Research here: Meeting New York’s Energy Needs: Reliability & Offshore Wind Previous Next

< Back Course Coordinator - Internship (Currently filled) North America Job Type Internship Workspace Remote Apply Now Please note that this role is filled and not currently hiring. If you wish to send your profile for us to keep on file in case of future openings, please send your resume and cover letter to info@aowacademy.com . About the Role As a Course Coordinator, you will be responsible for managing course content, schedules, and communication with attendees and instructors. You will assist with course logistics before and during the course and coordinate with external partners to oversee course delivery from end-to-end. With this role will have the opportunity to access over 50+ courses and learn from highest quality SMEs on each topic related to offshore wind. Qualifications - Current enrollment as a graduate student in a relevant field such as offshore wind, renewable energy, environmental studies, business management, or a related field. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft professional emails, communicate effectively in virtual meetings or presentation settings, and maintain accurate records - Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to track and manage numerous tasks and responsibilities simultaneously with high attention to detail. - Technological proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and other relevant software, with a willingness to learn new tools as needed - Experience in administrative roles or with project coordination is a plus - Demonstrated interest in offshore wind, sustainability, or renewable energy. How to Apply Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience to info@aowacademy.com The American Offshore Wind Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. About Us American Offshore Wind Academy is a pioneering initiative driven by senior leaders within the offshore wind industry who are committed to advancing and strengthening the sector in the United States and worldwide through comprehensive education, training, and collaboration. Apply Now

< Back Beyond the Horizon: The Future of Offshore Wind is Floating February 26, 2025 The global energy landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation, driven by the urgent need to decarbonize our economies and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Offshore wind energy has emerged as a critical component of this transition, offering a clean, abundant, and increasingly cost-competitive alternative to fossil fuels. However, the full potential of offshore wind has been constrained by the limitations of traditional fixed-bottom installations, restricting development to shallower coastal waters. Floating offshore wind turbines represent the future of offshore power, unlocking access to vast, untapped wind resources in deeper waters and ushering in a new era of clean energy generation. The Untapped Potential of the Deep Offshore wind offers significant advantages over its onshore counterpart, including higher capacity factors due to stronger and more consistent winds. Traditional fixed-bottom offshore wind turbines, however, are economically and technically limited by water depth and complex seabed conditions. These limitations significantly restrict the geographic scope of development. Floating platforms, anchored to the seabed by flexible mooring systems, overcome these constraints, enabling turbines to be deployed in deeper waters where wind resources are significantly more abundant and consistent. Crucially, around 80% of the world's exploitable offshore wind resources reside in waters deeper than 60 meters (~200 ft.), a domain currently inaccessible to fixed-bottom installations. Floating offshore wind thus represent a critical pathway to harnessing this vast, untapped energy potential. While the global floating wind industry remains in its early stages, with approximately 270 MW of operational capacity as of 2023, the future appears exceptionally promising. The global project pipeline has surged to 244 GW, demonstrating substantial industry momentum. The United States, recognizing its vast deep-water resources, currently has over 6 GW of floating projects in its development pipeline, with a significant portion under site control. Given that over two-thirds of the nation's offshore wind potential lies in deep waters, a 2022 study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) estimates the U.S. technical potential for floating offshore wind at a staggering 2,773 GW, capable of generating nearly 9,000 terawatt-hours of energy annually. Technological Innovation at the Forefront Floating offshore wind farms consist of wind turbines mounted on floating platforms, which are stabilized by sophisticated mooring and anchoring systems. Just like fixed-bottom offshore wind farms, the kinetic energy of the wind is captured by the turbine blades, converted into electricity, and transmitted via subsea cables to onshore substations for distribution. Several innovative platform designs are under development, each tailored to specific environmental conditions and project requirements: Barge Platforms: Characterized by their large surface area in contact with the water, barge platforms offer inherent stability, similar to a ship. Their relatively simple design makes them a potentially cost-effective solution for certain applications. Semi-submersible Platforms: These platforms minimize their exposure to wave action by reducing the water plane area while maximizing submerged volume for buoyancy. This design offers enhanced stability in challenging sea states. Spar Platforms: Spar platforms achieve stability through a deep-draft design, with the majority of the weight concentrated at the lowest point. This approach provides excellent stability but can present challenges in manufacturing and deployment. Tension Leg Platforms (TLPs): TLPs are anchored to the seabed using tensioned tendons, effectively minimizing platform motion. This design offers the potential for cost reduction by minimizing the size of the floating structure. The selection of the optimal platform type is a complex decision, influenced by a multitude of factors including site-specific conditions, water depth, wind resource characteristics, turbine size, cost considerations, and supply chain availability. Image credit: Iberdrola Mooring Systems Mooring systems are essential for maintaining the stability and position of floating wind turbine foundations, especially in deep water. These systems, comprising mooring lines and anchors, transfer forces from the foundation to the seabed, counteracting unwanted motions that could damage subsea power cables. They are typically composed of various steel chain sections alternating with some sections composed of synthetic fiber rope, usually polyester or nylon. Mooring configurations are tailored to site conditions, foundation type, and cable design, influencing the turbine's six degrees of motion. Taut mooring lines, often used with tension leg platforms, connect the platform to high-load vertical anchors. Catenary lines, common in spar, barge, and semi-submersible platforms, utilize freely hanging chains and drag anchors. Anchors Anchors are critical for securing floating wind platforms to the seabed, and their design is heavily influenced by seabed characteristics. While various types exist, including deadweight, driven pile, drag, suction pile, gravity drop, and vertical load anchors, drag anchors are the most common due to their strong horizontal load resistance and good seabed penetration. However, they are less suited for vertical loads. Driven piles and suction piles offer alternative solutions, with suction piles also offering recoverability. A key innovation being explored is shared anchor systems, which allow multiple platforms to connect to a single anchor. This approach, demonstrated by Equinor 's Hywind Tampen project, can reduce the total number of anchors required, improving efficiency and potentially lowering costs compared to projects like Hywind Scotland. More information on anchors and moorings: Fact sheet from offshore wind Scotland Image credit: IRENA Transmission Cables A key element for floating offshore wind cabling is the fact the cables are dynamic, meaning that they are designed to follow and withstand the motion of the floating sub-structure caused by wind, waves and current. They are developed specifically to be exposed to saltwater, to have high fatigue loads and to have tolerance to the motions of foundations and oceans. Dynamic cables usually have a non-lead insulator sheath and an additional armoring layer when compared to static cables. The Multifaceted Advantages of Floating Wind The adoption of floating offshore wind technology offers a compelling array of benefits: Access to Superior Wind Resources: Floating turbines unlock access to stronger, more consistent winds further offshore, resulting in significantly higher capacity factors compared to fixed-bottom installations. Capacity factors exceeding 60% are achievable, representing a substantial improvement over traditional fixed-bottom projects. Reduced Environmental Footprint: By locating further from shore, floating offshore wind farms minimize impacts on sensitive coastal ecosystems and marine life. Less noisy installation methods, such as the use of drag anchors and suction piles, further reduce disturbance to marine animals. Streamlined Manufacturing and Deployment: Floating platforms can be constructed and assembled onshore, simplifying logistics and reducing reliance on expensive heavy-lift vessels. Towing the completed platforms to the offshore site minimizes weather-dependent operations and facilitates easier maintenance, with some operations potentially conducted in port. Enhanced Public Opinion: The greater distance from shore reduces the visual impact and noise associated with wind farms, minimizing potential community resistance which can help facilitate smoother project development. Driving Cost Competitiveness: The floating offshore wind industry is experiencing rapid cost reductions, driven by technological advancements, economies of scale, and optimized manufacturing and installation processes. Stimulating Local Economies: Onshore assembly and manufacturing foster the development of local supply chains, creating valuable jobs and stimulating economic growth in coastal communities. The development of dedicated port infrastructure further enhances these economic benefits. Enhanced Scalability and Standardization: The potential for standardized platform designs offers significant cost advantages and accelerates deployment, enabling the rapid scaling of floating wind capacity. Navigating the Challenges While floating offshore wind holds immense promise, its widespread adoption faces a complex web of challenges that must be addressed to unlock its full potential. These challenges span technical, cost, environmental, regulatory, and infrastructural domains. Technical Challenges Deep Water Installation: Deploying massive wind turbines in the challenging environment of deep ocean waters presents significant logistical hurdles. Specialized vessels capable of handling and installing these large structures in deep water are required, driving up costs and demanding innovative installation techniques. Mooring Systems: The heart of a floating wind farm lies in its mooring system. Designing robust and reliable mooring systems that can withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds, strong currents, and large waves, is crucial for maintaining platform stability and ensuring long-term operational integrity. Weather Dependence: Installation and maintenance operations for floating wind farms are inherently dependent on favorable weather windows. Rough seas and high winds can significantly disrupt these activities, leading to delays and increased costs. Developing strategies to mitigate weather-related risks is essential. Cable Management: Managing the intricate network of underwater cables that connect the floating turbines to the onshore grid poses a significant technical challenge. Protecting these cables from damage caused by marine life, strong currents, and other environmental factors is vital for reliable energy transmission. Transmitting electricity over longer distances can also result in greater efficiency losses, which can reduce the overall output to the grid. Cost Challenges High Capital Investment: The specialized technology required for floating wind farms, including the sophisticated floating foundations, advanced mooring systems, and subsea cables, necessitates substantial upfront capital investment. Reducing these initial costs is crucial for making floating wind competitive with other energy sources. Operation and Maintenance: The remote location of floating wind farms, often far offshore, makes operation and maintenance activities complex and expensive. Developing cost-effective strategies for accessing turbines for repairs and maintenance, particularly in harsh weather conditions, is essential for long-term economic viability. Environmental Challenges Marine Life Impacts: The construction and operation of floating wind farms have the potential to impact marine ecosystems. Noise from construction activities, electromagnetic fields from subsea cables, and the presence of turbine structures can potentially disrupt fish migration patterns, marine mammal behavior, and other aspects of the marine environment. Careful environmental assessments and mitigation measures are essential to building these projects in a responsible manner.. Regulatory Challenges Permitting Complexities: Navigating the complex and often lengthy permitting processes associated with offshore wind development can be a significant hurdle. Streamlining these processes while ensuring environmental protection is crucial for accelerating project timelines. Grid Connection: Integrating the electricity generated by floating wind farms into the existing power grid requires careful planning and coordination. Upgrading grid infrastructure and ensuring grid stability are essential for accommodating large-scale floating wind deployment. Infrastructure Challenges Port Limitations: The construction and assembly of large floating wind turbines require specialized port facilities with sufficient capacity, heavy-lift capabilities, and deep-water access. Many existing ports lack these capabilities, requiring significant investment in port infrastructure development. Vessel Availability: The installation and maintenance of floating wind farms require specialized vessels capable of operating in deep water and harsh weather conditions. The limited availability of these vessels can create bottlenecks and increase costs. Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a concerted effort from industry, government, and research institutions. Continued innovation in technology, streamlined regulatory processes, strategic infrastructure investments, and a commitment to environmental stewardship are crucial for realizing the full potential of floating offshore wind and powering a sustainable future. Operational Developments Several floating offshore wind projects have demonstrated the viability and potential of this technology. Hywind Scotland, the world's first floating wind farm (30MW), has consistently achieved the highest average capacity factor of all UK offshore wind farms for three years running (reaching 57.1% in 2020), proving the potential of floating wind. Equinor, the developer, has achieved significant cost reductions (60-70%) between its demonstrator project and Hywind Scotland and anticipates further reductions (40%) with its larger 88 MW Hywind Tampen project. Hywind Tampen, the world's largest floating wind farm, powers offshore oil and gas platforms and serves as a testbed for future floating wind technologies. These projects showcase the technical feasibility, increasing cost-competitiveness, and real-world performance of floating offshore wind, paving the way for larger-scale deployments. Check out this video by Equinor about Hywind Scotland, the worlds first floating offshore wind project. Other Pilot Projects -The 25-MW WindFloat Atlantic project: The first floating wind farm in continental Europe, features three 8.4 MW turbines utilizing semi-submersible platforms. It has been operational since 2019, supplying clean energy to the 25,000 Portuguese households every year -The 25-MW Provence Grand Large pilot project: Three 8.4-MW Siemens Gamesa turbines on tension-leg floating platforms near Marseille, France. It is expected to produce the equivalent of the annual electricity consumption of 45,000 inhabitants. -The 3.6-MW Guoneng Sharing pilot project: A single turbine on a semisubmersible platform near Longyuan Nanri Island in China. -The 2-MW DemoSATH demonstration project in Spain: A single 2-MW turbine, designed to test the "SATH" (Saitec Offshore Technologies Hull) floating platform technology in real-world conditions off the Basque coast. While most other projects are still in the planning phase, it is estimated that around 14 GW of floating offshore wind capacity will be installed globally by 2029. Still, there is a high degree of uncertainty about their timing and likelihood of completion. Most of the developer announced deployment through 2029 is in the United Kingdom (4,242 MW), Italy (4,160 MW), Taiwan (1,530 MW), China (1,052 MW), and Spain (995 MW). The First Two-Turbine Floating Platform Mingyang Smart Energy has launched OceanX, a groundbreaking floating offshore wind platform featuring two 8.3MW turbines for a combined capacity of 16.6MW, making it the world's largest single-capacity floating wind turbine platform. Designed to withstand Category 5 hurricane conditions and continue generating power in winds up to 161 mph and waves as high as 98 feet, OceanX is expected to produce enough electricity to power approximately 30,000 Chinese households annually. A 1:10 scale prototype was successfully tested in 2020, and the full-scale platform has now been deployed to the Qingzhou IV offshore wind farm in Yangjiang, Guangdong, China. This innovative dual-turbine design, built with ultra-high-performance concrete and featuring 219-meter towers, represents a significant advancement in floating offshore wind technology. Image credit: Renew Economy Charting the Course for a Sustainable Future Floating offshore wind is not merely a promising technology; it is a transformative force poised to reshape the global energy landscape. By unlocking access to previously inaccessible wind resources, floating offshore wind farms have the potential to become a cornerstone of the clean energy transition. While challenges remain, the industry is rapidly maturing, propelled by innovation, investment, and a growing recognition of the immense potential of this technology. With continued focus on supply chain development, port infrastructure, and O&M strategies, floating offshore wind is poised to play a leading role in powering a sustainable future. Innovation in floating offshore wind technology is the key to unlocking the vast, untapped energy potential of deeper waters, paving the way for a cleaner and more secure future. Sources Equinor , NREL , OSW Biz , Iberdrola , Semar , Science Direct , Acteon , IRENA Previous Next

< Back Navigating the Waters: Offshore Wind and Whale Protection February 19, 2025 Misinformation campaigns, often fueled by fossil fuel interests, have falsely linked offshore wind development to increased whale deaths. These campaigns exploit public concern for marine life, using emotionally charged imagery and selective data to create a misleading narrative. They frequently misrepresent the primary causes of whale mortality – ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear – while downplaying the significant efforts undertaken by the offshore wind industry to protect marine mammals. This misinformation not only obstructs the urgently needed transition to clean energy but also diverts attention from the real threats facing whales, hindering effective conservation. Critically evaluating information sources and relying on peer-reviewed scientific research is crucial for understanding the true relationship between offshore wind and marine mammal health. As of 2024, no U.S. whale death has been linked to offshore wind operations. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) , in collaboration with offshore wind developers and environmental organizations, has developed “ Best Management Practices for North Atlantic Right Whales During Offshore Wind Energy Construction and Operations Along the U.S. East Coast. ” These guidelines, along with agreements like the one signed by Vineyard Wind, NRDC, Conservation Law Foundation, and National Wildlife Federation, provide a robust framework for balancing clean energy development with marine mammal protection. While the offshore wind industry is a crucial component of the clean energy transition, it recognizes its responsibility to minimize impacts on vulnerable species like whales. Fortunately, the industry is actively implementing a range of measures to safeguard these animals. Siting: Choosing the Right Locations Siting is the first line of defense. It involves carefully analyzing available data on whale migration routes, feeding grounds, breeding areas, and other critical habitats. Developers work with scientists and regulatory agencies to identify areas where wind farm development would pose the least risk to marine mammals. This often involves excluding designated protected areas, known aggregation sites, and important migratory corridors. While avoiding all interactions is impossible, strategic siting significantly minimizes the potential for negative impacts. Advanced modeling and predictive tools are increasingly being used to refine site selection and further reduce risks. Vessel Speed Limits: Slowing Down for Safety Vessel strikes are a major threat to whales. Implementing and strictly enforcing speed limits for all vessels associated with offshore wind projects is crucial. This includes construction vessels, transport ships, crew transfer vessels, and maintenance boats. Lower speeds (typically 10 knots or less in whale sensitive areas) give vessel operators more time to spot whales and avoid collisions. Slower speeds also reduce the severity of impacts if a collision does occur, potentially minimizing injuries or fatalities. GPS tracking and other monitoring technologies can be used to ensure compliance with speed limits. Seasonal Construction Restrictions: Timing is Everything Many whale species undertake seasonal migrations, moving between breeding grounds and feeding areas. Construction activities, especially pile driving, can generate significant underwater noise that disrupts these movements and communication. Seasonal restrictions, informed by scientific data on whale presence and migration patterns, can minimize these disruptions. For example, pile driving might be restricted during periods when whales are known to frequent a particular area. These restrictions are often site-specific and tailored to the particular species present and their behavior. Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM): Listening for Whales PAM systems use underwater microphones (hydrophones) to listen for whale vocalizations. These systems can detect the presence of whales even when they are not visually observed, providing a valuable early warning system. PAM can be deployed 24/7, providing continuous monitoring, unlike visual observation which is limited by daylight and weather conditions. The data collected from PAM systems can be used to inform real-time decision-making regarding construction activities, allowing work to be paused or modified if whales are detected in the vicinity. Image credit: NOAA Protected Species Observers (PSOs): Eyes on the Water Trained PSOs are stationed on construction vessels and platforms to visually scan the surrounding waters for marine mammals. They are trained to identify different species and recognize behaviors that may indicate distress or avoidance. PSOs have the authority to halt construction activities if whales or other protected species are observed within a designated safety zone. They also record sightings and other relevant data, contributing to long-term monitoring efforts. Night vision and other specialized equipment can also be used to enhance visual observation capabilities. Image credit: NOAA Bubble Curtains: A Barrier for Underwater Noise Bubble curtains are a noise mitigation technology used to reduce the impact of underwater noise generated by pile driving. They consist of a perforated pipe or ring placed around the pile driving site, which releases a stream of air bubbles. These bubbles create a barrier that absorbs and deflects sound waves, reducing the amount of noise that travels outwards. Double bubble curtains, with two concentric rings of bubbles, provide even greater noise reduction (up to nearly 95%). Image credit: Continental Other Mitigation Measures and Ongoing Research Aerial Surveys: Regular aerial surveys, conducted by trained observers, provide a broader view of whale distribution and behavior in and around project areas. These surveys can be used to validate PAM data and identify areas of high whale activity. Long-Term Research and Monitoring: Comprehensive research and monitoring programs are essential for understanding the long-term effects of offshore wind development on marine mammals. These programs involve collecting data on whale populations, behavior, habitat use, and exposure to noise and other stressors. Collaboration between developers, scientists, and environmental groups is crucial for ensuring that research efforts are well-designed and the results are shared widely. Technological Advancements: The offshore wind industry is continually exploring and developing new technologies to minimize impacts on marine mammals. This includes quieter installation methods, improved acoustic monitoring systems, and innovative deterrents. Continued research and development are essential for further reducing risks and ensuring the coexistence of offshore wind and marine life. Habitat Restoration and Enhancement: In some cases, developers may undertake habitat restoration or enhancement projects to offset potential impacts on marine mammals. This could involve restoring degraded coastal habitats or creating artificial reefs to provide alternative foraging or breeding areas. The offshore wind industry recognizes its responsibility to protect marine life. These implemented measures, coupled with continued investment in research and innovation, demonstrate a commitment to minimizing impacts and ensuring the health and safety of whales and other marine mammals. While offshore wind plays a vital role in the clean energy transition, the industry understands that addressing the primary threats to whales, alongside responsible development, is absolutely essential for the long-term survival of these magnificent creatures. Sources: NRDC , Saildrone , NOAA , Wind Exchange , Environment America , Conservation Law Foundation Previous Next