This report is especially intended to provide detailed information on the domestic offshore wind industry to provide a U.S. context and help navigate technical and market barriers and opportunities.
Key Findings:
- The U.S. offshore wind energy project development and operational pipeline grew to an estimated potential generating capacity of 25,824 megawatts (MW), with 21,225 MW under exclusive site control.
- Four U.S. regions experienced significant development and regulatory activities.
- State-level policy commitments accelerated, driving increased market interest.
- Increased U.S. market interest spurred strong competition at offshore wind lease auctions.
- Several U.S. projects advanced in the development process.
- Industry forecasts suggest U.S. offshore wind capacity could grow to 11–16 gigawatts by 2030.
- Offtake prices for the first commercial-scale offshore wind project in Massachusetts were lower than expected.
- Offshore wind interest accelerated in California.
- New national R&D consortium aims to spur innovation.
- Global offshore wind annual generating capacity installed in 2018 set a new record of 5,652 MW.
- Industry is seeking cost reductions through larger turbines with rated capacities of 10 MW and beyond.
- Floating offshore wind pilot projects are advancing.
Download the full 2018 Offshore Wind Technologies Market Report.
