Offshore Wind Energy Discussion

Offshore wind turbines.\Photo courtesy of Surfrider.

Offshore wind energy development has become a serious possibility in Oregon.  Soon the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management will be releasing official “call areas” in federal waters off of the Oregon coast that will be eligible for offshore wind energy leases and associated development.  The Surfrider Foundation’s Portland chapter is hosting a panel discussion on Wednesday, Feb. 9, from 6-8 p.m., to consider this impending change to Oregon’s ocean and the potential impacts.

Register for this informative webinar, which is free and open to the public, here.

Here is the tentative list of speakers:

*Necy Sumait, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), Pacific Office of Strategic Resources Regional Supervisor:  Overview of BOEM’s offshore wind authorization process, from the Call through development (big picture). General timeline and an update on Call Area(s) for Oregon. Overview of engagement opportunities during the Call and leasing process.

*Jason Sierman, Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE), Senior Energy Policy Analyst:  ODOE’s floating offshore wind study--overview, update on study, and relevant opportunities to engage.

*Andy Lanier, Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), Marine Affairs Coordinator:  Description of the State of Oregon role in offshore wind energy planning.

*Tribal Nations (Invited):  Cultural interests, reflections on task force process.

*Shannon Souza, Pacific Ocean Energy Trust:  Renewable energy industry interests and approach for Oregon.

*Tara Brock, Oceana, Pacific Counsel:  Big picture of environmental considerations in OSW

*Fishing and other ocean users (Invited):  Select members of the Oregon Ocean Policy Advisory Council.

*Q & A:  30-40 min

*Facilitated by Charlie Plybon, Surfrider Foundation