Oregon has released a draft road map to provide state lawmakers with recommendations on how to proceed with offshore wind endeavors, while acknowledging the uncertainty the industry faces.

The Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) released the draft offshore wind energy road map for public review Feb. 17.

The document is the product of 2024 Oregon House Bill 4080. The 192-page report comes amid policy uncertainty, with the federal government attempting to stop offshore wind projects across the country. (See N.Y. Cancels Solicitation but Remains Committed to OSW.)

“Since the adoption of House Bill 4080, uncertainties about federal policy and the future of the offshore wind energy industry have grown,” the document states. “Nevertheless, the need remains to advance state clean energy and climate goals, to strengthen state policies, and to build capacity and knowledge should the federal interest in offshore wind energy development off Oregon’s coast return.”

The report considers four scenarios: large-scale offshore wind development, pilot projects, economic participation without wind turbines or opting out of wind development.

Under the large-scale offshore wind development and pilot project scenarios, the DLCD recommends launching rulemaking efforts to address policy gaps related to offshore wind technology.

Policymakers should encourage investments and reduce risks for emerging technologies, collaborate with other states, support local governments, and enhance coordination in areas like transmission and procurement, among other recommendations, according to the road map.

“By leading with proactive planning, broad community engagement and strategic capacity-building now, Oregon can better position itself to protect its treasured resources, secure meaningful community benefits and be ready to make informed decisions when the time comes to decide on offshore wind energy development,” the DLCD wrote. “Under any future scenario, Oregon can act now to strengthen its policy standards, grow the state’s knowledge of the ocean and build a resilient energy system that moves Oregon closer to our climate goals and prepares us for the multiple paths ahead.”

The deadline to submit comments on the road map is April 3. The public can send comments to dlcd.oswroadmap@dlcd.oregon.gov.