Virginia issues request for proposals to support offshore wind industry development

The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy has posted a Request For Proposals seeking qualified contractors to help deploy strategies that will strengthen Virginia’s position in attracting the offshore wind supply chain and service industry to the Commonwealth.

“Hampton Roads’ unmatched port infrastructure and high-quality maritime workforce make the region an ideal location for offshore wind energy development,” said Gov. Ralph Northam. “Virginia should be the prime location for the offshore wind industry, from the supply chain to the full build out of our offshore wind assets off the coast.”

Virginia already boasts clear advantages as compared to other coastal states. Virginia’s port assets are well-positioned to serve as a supply chain and service hub. No other major East Coast port shares Virginia’s capability of unlimited air clearance. The Hampton Roads region also enjoys open shipping channels and navigational flexibility that make maritime congestion a low-level concern.

“This is the start of a 50-year industry that will stretch up and down the East Coast. From a logistics standpoint, locating the offshore wind supply-chain in Virginia just makes sense,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball.

The results of this RFP will build on Virginia’s advantages and provide recommendations to further enhance Virginia’s capacity regarding maritime workforce and the Commonwealth’s favorable business climate. The RFP focuses on expertise in port infrastructure requirements, build-out of the various offshore wind supply chain sectors, and long-term maritime service needs.

“We look forward to collaborating on business partnership, business climate, and workforce development strategies aimed at fulfilling the offshore wind industry’s needs,” said Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy Director John Warren.