“Our nation’s future economic and environmental interests depend on sustainably developing the resources off our shores,” said Delahunt. “This bill creates a vital framework to begin the process of identifying viable areas for renewable energy development, as well as those areas that need be protected.”
The legislation, The Coastal States Renewable Energy Promotion Act of 2009 was authored and introduced by Congresswoman Lois Capps (CA-23) and also co-sponsored by Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-3). The bill helps to ensure that the U.S. develops offshore renewable resources, such as wind, solar, wave and ocean current energy, in an efficient and environmentally-friendly manner.
The legislation will provide funding for coastal states, in consultation with Federal agencies, to classify offshore areas for appropriate renewable energy projects. This advanced planning will help eliminate conflicts between state and federal governments.
“This legislation will ensure that responsible offshore energy development occurs in a timely manner, in the right locations, is subject to the terms that fully protect the public interest, and through processes that ensure ample public input,” Delahunt added.
The bill would establish a new grant program under the Coastal Zone Management Act to allow coastal states to voluntarily complete surveys of the Outer Continental Shelf and adjacent coastal waters to identify areas that are suitable for the development of offshore renewable energy projects. The legislation also includes a savings clause to clearly state the bill does not supersede or preempt existing Federal authority to regulate energy development on the OCS or grant new authorities to the coastal states.
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