Gov. John Carney signed a bill Sept. 5 to create a framework for soliciting and approving offshore wind projects along Delaware’s coast.

The Delaware Energy Solutions Act of 2024 passed the House 25-15 with one absent June 30, after passing the Senate 15-6 May 23. Carney also signed energy policy bills to develop the state’s electric vehicle infrastructure, expand access to solar, and require county governments to factor climate change into their comprehensive plans.

“I have said for many years that new sources of energy like offshore wind are essential to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and countering the impacts of climate change,” Carney said in a press release. “This legislation will allow us to purchase wind-generated renewable energy in a fiscally responsible way so that we can continue to work toward those goals. I want to thank the members of the General Assembly and environmental advocates for their hard work and support.”

“Delaware is the lowest-lying state in the country, and we have seen climate change affecting our communities,” Carney said. “I’m proud of the work that we have done to mitigate those impacts, reduce greenhouse gases, and find cleaner ways to generate energy. We know that the work must continue.”  

Sen. Stephanie Hansen sponsored the bill with input from state agencies, industry experts, energy researchers and environmental advocates. 

“While Senate Bill 265 does not automatically give the green light for any offshore wind projects to move forward, it does lay out the specific terms and conditions under which the State of Delaware would be willing to permit a cost-effective offshore wind project to move forward and help secure a cleaner, more sustainable future for our children and grandchildren,” Hansen said. 

Rep. Debra Heffernan, the House sponsor, said offshore wind energy procurement will proceed under this new law.

“This is a monumental step toward embracing a cleaner, more sustainable future, and helps to ensure that we stay on track to meet the targets outlined in the Climate Solutions Act,” she said. “It will take time before we see a turbine in Delaware, but this is still a huge feat. We have now begun the process to ensure that Delaware is ready to make the switch to clean energy when the best opportunity presents itself. Thank you to all of my colleagues who have worked with me to ensure this bill reflects the best interests of our environment and the citizens of our beautiful state.” 

Climate advocates also applauded the bill. 

“The responsible development of offshore wind and the transition to renewable energy is essential for the protection of wildlife, habitats, and communities from the havoc of climate change,” said Amber Hewett, senior director of Offshore Wind Energy at the National Wildlife Federation. “As one of the nation’s most abundant clean energy resources, offshore wind energy will help stabilize rates, increase energy reliability, and help Delaware achieve its clean energy goals. Our continued reliance on harmful fossil fuels is increasing global temperatures, forcing migration patterns to change, and impacting food chains for marine wildlife. Responsible offshore wind energy is the future, and Delaware is on its way to becoming a leading partner in this endeavor.”