The offshore wind industry has seen incredible progress recently, developing into a viable energy resource thanks to numerous legislative actions that are set to improve the offshore wind workforce, boost the economy, as well as innovative wind turbine technologies and significant investments.

These developments have sparked interest in the workboat industry, which is notably affected by the collapsing oil prices. But hope seems to be in the horizon because of the offshore wind industry, as the Maritime Executive reports, “Shipyards are benefiting too – particularly smaller shipyards – since wind farms require specialized vessels and traditional workboats often need extensive, and sometimes expensive, conversions to do the job right. The market for new wind farm vessels in New England, particularly, is booming.” It also quoted Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), saying, “American wind power reached new heights for energy generated and U.S. jobs in 2017… and don’t be surprised when the industry continues to break records. Wind is competitively priced, reliable, and clean – a winning combination that’s creating economic growth in all 50 states.”

The Work Boat reports that the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee “approved an amendment to the Maritime Administration Authorization and Enhancement Act that would require a report on the kinds of vessels needed for offshore wind farms and whether they are available for U.S. offshore projects.”

This week, the Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA) announced the formation of the OMSA Wind Committee, which will make recommendations to the Board and OMSA staff on strategies and initiatives that increase U.S. maritime industry involvement in the offshore wind sector. The committee will also assist OMSA’s efforts to protect the Jones Act and ensure U.S. offshore wind infrastructure is constructed, serviced, and maintained in a Jones Act compliant manner.

This support will greatly help the United States, as Work Boat further notes the country to be “poised for substantial growth,” with 13 existing commercial leases off the U.S. East Coast from Massachusetts to North Carolina in various stages of permitting and more leases to be offered in the coming months.