Energy consumers in the US state of Maryland will pay a surcharge to support construction of an offshore wind farm. The state’s Offshore Wind Energy Act of 2013 became law yesterday, with the state governor signing the bill following its approval by the state legislature last month.
It introduces a monthly $1.50 (€1.15) surcharge on household energy bills and a 1.5% increase for non-residential consumers. It has entered into force quickly, having been presented in draft form in January.
Governor Martin O’Malley is a strong supporter of offshore wind. He argues that a 200MW project planned for waters 16km off Ocean City will create hundreds of jobs and help to re-orient Maryland’s economy toward new, innovative industries.
It was announced last month that HiDef had won a contract from the state, to conduct aerial surveys of the area earmarked for development, in preparation for an environmental impact assessment.
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