BOEM Sketches 2020 Renewables Leasing Plan

The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is planning to continue advancing renewable energy through an aggressive leasing program if the proposed USD 193.4 million Fiscal Year 2020 budget request is approved.

Proposed by President Donald Trump, the budget request focuses on the execution of BOEM’s plans for offshore renewable energy, offshore oil and gas exploration and leasing, marine minerals management and science-based analyses.

The proposal requests USD 21.3 million for renewable energy activities, which include permitting for the siting and construction of offshore wind farms on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS),  and other forms of renewable energy such as wave and current energy.

According to BOEM, the suggested budget continues to support the efforts that are vital for implementing the first U.S. offshore energy strategy.

With the request, BOEM proposes to focus resources on renewable energy due to the role it can play in achieving the energy strategy, as well as on the 2019-2024 National OCS Program, marine minerals and environmental analyses.

If the aggressive offshore renewables leasing program is implemented, BOEM said it will ensure the environmental review and permitting process for renewable energy projects are coordinated, predictable, and transparent.

“This Administration calls for boosting domestic energy production to stimulate the Nation’s economy and strengthen America’s energy security, while providing for environmental stewardship,” said BOEM’s Acting Director Walter Cruickshank.

“The FY 2020 budget request allows BOEM to continue its efforts to advance these goals as part of our statutory mission.”