Slow but optimistic progress in the offshore energy revolution

Marina Gaglias, at the UK P&I Club, considers the evolution of offshore wind farms in the US

Wind energy is quickly emerging as an important component of our future energy mix. The US is an ideal place for wind energy given its extensive coastlines with high population density driving energy demand. With the increase in the planning and building of offshore wind farms, both fixed-bottom and floating in US waters, the demand for vessels to construct and maintain these installations is growing. However, compared to other areas of the world, such as Europe, the US has fallen behind in the construction of these offshore wind farms due to the uncertainty surrounding the regulatory process.