KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Offshore wind development is picking up speed in the U.S.: the first offshore wind project PPA has been signed, several other large developments have been proposed, and most importantly, the MMS has awarded the first offshore wind leases. The availability, consistency and location of offshore wind resources will enable these projects to achieve high capacity factors, while easing the cost of developing large-scale transmission projects, thus bringing renewable power efficiently to large coastal population centers. However, offshore projects have special challenges, including placating local opposition, a complex regulatory structure, as well as technical and logistical risks, which may complicate financing. Only the best informed will be able to seize the vast opportunities for developing offshore wind.

Infocast’s Offshore Wind Development Summit provides an up-to-date picture of the North American offshore wind market. It identifies key opportunities for development, and explores technical risks associated with offshore wind, including lessons learned from European developments. Guidance on the new permitting rules under development and how the rules will affect development in various regions and how to overcome transmission interconnection and financing challenges will be discussed. Finally, it will present case studies on some of the most advanced offshore wind projects proposed for North America.

The main Summit will be preceded by a one-day Offshore Wind Technology Showcase, devoted to new technologies being developed to solve the unique issues facing offshore wind projects in North America.