Wind energy power generation is on the rise around the world. This is as a result of its low fixed prices and lack of greenhouse gas emissions.
However, the United States is just beginning to invest in offshore wind energy. And it is fast approaching the operational launch of its first commercial offshore wind farm.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has estimated the United States to have over 4,000 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind potential. This is enough to power the country four times over.
Around the world, the rising popularity of clean, renewable energy is creating an abundance of opportunities for forward-looking entrepreneurs. So also, regulators and public policy advocates.
According to the latest national offshore wind strategy report, offshore wind has the potential to produce 7,200 terawatt-hours of electricity per year.
This is nearly double the country’s total electricity generation in 2015. This was compiled by the Department of Energy and the Department of Interior in 2016.
These projects are just the beginning for the U.S. offshore wind industry, with the federal government predicting the United States to have 22,000 megawatts of offshore wind capacity by 2030.
Offshore wind farming has proven to be a successful solution, not just for eyesore issues, but for productivity.
In addition to this, wind turbines are a great way to produce clean energy.
However, the potential of offshore wind will remain unfulfilled, without the continued stimulus of progressive federal climate and renewable energy policies.
Hence, there is a need for serious thinking to improve this sector by inducting new technology, attracting more investment, developing non-conventional sources and inculcating habits for saving and conservation.
Another significant step in this direction would be to bring down the wastage of energy. This can be curtailed by adopting appropriate measures. Penalty may be levied and legal actions initiated against power pilferage.