USA: Maryland Offshore Wind Energy Act Passes House of Delegates

The Maryland Climate Coalition commends Chairman Derrick Davis, Speaker Busch, and members of the House of Delegates for passing HB 226, the Maryland Offshore Wind Energy Act of 2013, with a vote of 86-48.

“Today was a great day for democracy. With 72% of Maryland voters in support of investing in an offshore wind economy, we commend the House of Delegates for listening to their constituents and passing the Offshore Wind Act,” proclaimed Karla Raettig, Executive Director of Maryland League of Conservation Voters.

Over 500 organizations, community groups, and businesses both small and large have come out in support of offshore wind power over the last 3 years. Upon hearing of this news, organizations throughout the state wanted to express their gratitude to the leadership in the House of Delegates.

“A huge pat on the back to Gov. O’Malley, Speaker Busch, Chairmen Davis and their colleagues in the House of Delegates,” says Tommy Landers, Director Environment Maryland. “Thanks to their leadership, the state of Maryland is making progress towards a clean energy economy, a stable climate, healthy air, and cleaner water.”

Passage of this bill will set up a market-driven process to incentivize the construction of ocean-based wind turbines 10 miles or more off the coast of Ocean City, which will provide Marylanders with the benefits of good jobs, healthier air, and more stable energy costs.

Christine Hill, Conservation and Policy Associate, Sierra Club says: “Our legislators are listening, and they know that Marylanders want clean energy. By transitioning from dirty, outdated fossil fuels like coal towards clean energy sources like offshore wind, Maryland families will benefit with more local jobs, savings of nearly $2 billion in health-related costs over 20 years, and a safer climate for our children’s futures.”

The bill now heads to the Senate Finance Committee where they are scheduled to vote on SB275 on Tuesday, February 26, 2013.

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Press release, February 25, 2013; Image: sierraclub