The MOU will help further institutionalize the deep collaboration between BOEM and DOD that is ensuring that offshore wind lease areas and project plans strengthen the nation’s energy security in ways that are compatible with military operations.
BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment Brendan Owens signed the MOU during a ceremony at the Offshore WINDPOWER Conference in Atlantic City, NJ.
"BOEM is dedicated to establishing a strong offshore wind industry that supports communities and co-exists with other ocean uses,” said BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein. “Our collaboration with the Department of Defense is crucial to ensure offshore wind development is carried out efficiently and sustainably, while minimizing impacts to military operations.”
“DOD is committed to working across the U.S. government to accelerate the ongoing clean energy transition, which is critical to ensuring access to reliable and resilient energy sources in order to fulfill our mission,” said Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment Brendan Owens. “We will continue to work with BOEM and our other interagency partners, to find solutions that enable offshore wind development while ensuring long-term compatibility with testing, training, and operations critical to our military readiness.”
DOD and BOEM share responsibility for ensuring that offshore wind project plans consider military preparedness requirements. The new MOU will define and clarify the roles and duties of both organizations during leasing and project review. This collaborative approach also includes participating in Intergovernmental Renewable Energy Task Forces.
The MOU calls for DOD and BOEM to:
