'Donald Trump will re-inherit the offshore wind success story he kickstarted'
OPINION | From jobs to energy independence, the offshore wind industry's contribution to America justifies continued investment, argues Liz Burdock
Every day, Americans across 39 states wake up and power the future of clean energy through their work in the offshore wind industry. Some step into welding helmets, others zip up sea-survival suits, and many wear business casual attire as they calculate engineering marvels that will transform our energy grid.
From coastlines to midwestern towns, these dedicated professionals are building more than offshore wind turbines – they’re creating jobs, driving innovation, and leading the charge toward energy independence and grid reliability.
The progress we’ve made in recent years is undeniable. Offshore wind energy has created thousands of jobs, led to more than 1,675 supplier contracts, spurred local economic growth, and $25bn in supply chain investments.
Beyond the scalability of this energy solution to meet double-digit rising demand, these achievements tell the story of an American industry – one that’s transforming communities, reviving manufacturing and shipbuilding, stimulating activity in coastal ports, and helping people buy their first homes by delivering well-paying jobs across the nation.
When President-elect Donald Trump takes office, he will re-inherit an industry he kickstarted. Eight years ago, the first Trump administration began implementing the fundamental framework for our modern offshore wind industry and oversaw three federal lease sales that netted $456m for the federal treasury.
Those actions led to the first wave of investments in supply chain facilities for the industry, which are now creating jobs in places like Texas and South Carolina and enabled the substantial level of investment we’ve seen since 2020.
This industry’s role in creating a stable workforce, advancing domestic manufacturing, and building a resilient national supply chain is a success story worth investing in again.
Our message to policymakers is clear: the US offshore wind industry has become an economic powerhouse. It’s driving local and state economies and positioning the US as an energy leader. It has the potential to accelerate this progress and even enhance our national security by diversifying our energy sources and increasing domestic energy production.
It would also advance the incoming administration's goals, supporting the domestic production of steel and shipyard expansion while rebuilding our nation’s port infrastructure.
Advancing this industry protects American jobs and ensures the continued growth of the billions of dollars invested, solidifying the US offshore wind sector as a thriving economic powerhouse.
Oceantic Network is dedicated to championing the momentum and bright future of offshore wind energy, ensuring it remains a priority. Together, we can make a difference. No matter your role in the offshore wind industry, your voice is essential.
We invite every business and individual who has experienced the transformative benefits of offshore wind to join us in staying engaged, informed, and proactive. By educating and advocating for continued bipartisan support and forward-thinking policies, we can secure the ongoing success of an industry that drives America’s economic growth and energy independence.