Key poll results include:
- Majorities of Democrats, Republicans, and independents in coastal counties support offshore wind power.
- Two-thirds of U.S. coastal county residents support offshore wind development. When asked about offshore wind power construction near where they live, support remains high (63%).
- The majority of people believe that offshore wind power is beneficial for energy reliability, energy independence, as well as jobs and the economy.
- Residents of coastal counties support government support for offshore wind power. A majority of coastal county residents (65%) support the government’s goal of building enough offshore wind energy to power 10 million homes by 2030, and are committed to expanding offshore wind development. Support expanding lease sales (59%).
- More than twice as many residents in coastal counties want offshore wind development over oil and gas development.
“This poll shows Americans recognize how important this clean energy resource is,” said Turn Forward Executive Director Stephanie McClellan.
“Offshore wind energy is becoming an economic driver for the United States, providing tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, revitalizing local economies, and creating a more reliable and equitable energy system.” recognizes the power of offshore wind energy and wants this industry to continue to grow and serve local communities.”
The poll results were announced as the industry reaches a key milestone. Two of America’s first large-scale offshore wind projects are now sending power to the grid: South Fork Wind to New York and Vineyard Wind to Massachusetts.
The Virginia Coastal Offshore Wind (CVOW) project will begin offshore construction this year and will be the largest offshore wind project in the United States. The first offshore wind lease area in the Gulf of Mexico was sold in August. Other milestones expected in 2024 include a second auction in the Gulf of Mexico and new lease sales off the coast of Oregon, in the mid-Atlantic and Gulf of Maine.
States continue to expand their commitment to offshore wind energy, with two new contracts announced in January for New Jersey, and additional projects in New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island this year. Selection is scheduled.
Voting results