economic impact

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center released the 2018 Massachusetts Offshore Wind Workforce Assessment, which examines the workforce needs and economic impact of the emerging offshore wind industry.

This report presents the results of a comprehensive workforce and economic analysis that estimates the labor needs and economic impacts associated with the planning, construction, and maintenance of offshore wind (OSW) energy in the Massachusetts and Rhode Island/Massachusetts Wind Energy Areas (WEAs). Informed by the experience of the OSW industry’s emergence in Europe, dozens of in-depth interviews, and a detailed economic analysis, this report is designed to provide state and regional policymakers with actionable recommendations they can use to maximize the economic benefits of the emerging OSW industry for Massachusetts, its communities, and its workforce.

Maine Gov. Paul R. Lepage has issued an order establishing the Maine Wind Energy Advisory Commission to study economic impacts of potential wind turbines, assess the economic impact of expedited wind rules and procedures, and develop recommendations in a written report. Until the report is issued in writing, no permits related to wind turbines are permitted. The order notes that "the scenic vistas and pristine waters of Western Maine, our coast and coastal islands, and our significant avian migratory pathways attract significant tourism to the State."

The report focuses on non-fossil fuel driven energy and economic development strategies in six major regions of the country.  For the Atlantic Coast, it recommends extending the production and investment tax credits and continuing the commitment to the US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s (BOEM's) Smart from the Start initiative.

Overview of offshore wind cost of energy and opportunities for cost reduction.

Overview of offshore wind supply chain and workforce skill needs.

Analysis of public opinion poll among 800 registered New Jersey voters in September, 2011, including tables and graphs of key results.

Topline results of public opinion poll among 800 registered New Jersey voters in September, 2011.

Statoil's proposed term sheet for a 20-year contract for the output of the Hywind Maine pilot project (nameplate capacity of 12MW).  Statoil estimates that project suppliers will employ approximately 150 full-time jobs in Maine during peak construction, and commits to spend at least 40% of capital and operations & maintenance (O&M) expenditures in Maine.

In this order, the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) issues its interpretation of the rate impact limitation provision regarding competitive solicitation of proposals for long-term contracts from deepwater offshore wind energy or tidal energy demonstration projects.

The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) solicits comments on a non-confidential redacted version of a term sheet for a proposed long-term contract for the output of the Hywind Maine pilot project.