Sharing Offshore Wind Revenue for Coastal Protection and Ecosystem Investment.
This Act modifies how federal revenues from offshore energy, particularly new wind projects, are distributed. A significant portion (37.5%) of offshore wind revenue will now go directly to eligible coastal states near the projects, while 12.5% funds the National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund. These funds must be used for coastal protection, ecosystem restoration, hurricane resilience, and infrastructure, directly benefiting the safety and environment of shoreline communities.
Key points
Coastal states near offshore wind projects will receive 37.5% of federal revenues from those projects for coastal protection and infrastructure.
The annual cap on oil and gas revenue sharing for Gulf of Mexico states (GOMESA) is eliminated, potentially increasing local funding for environmental and infrastructure projects.
The National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund receives 12.5% of offshore wind revenues to boost funding for scientific research and coastal resilience grants.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_373
Sponsor: Sen. Whitehouse, Sheldon [D-RI]
Process start date: 2023-02-09