Congressman Joe Kennedy III and Congresswoman Katherine Clark today applauded the bipartisan approval of their Offshore Wind Center of Excellence by the House Committee on Appropriations. Just days after the lawmakers broached the idea in a letter to Department of Energy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Daniel Simmons, the measure now advances to the Floor of the House of Representatives.
"Offshore wind energy can protect our environment, empower our workers, and reduce energy costs for our communities," said Congressman Kennedy. "By creating an Offshore Wind Center of Excellence, we can coordinate and collaborate with experts, advocates and industry leaders across the country. As our Commonwealth and region begin to enter this new era of energy, we need this Center to ensure our nation gains its rightful place as a leader in this emerging industry."
"Offshore Wind is one of our essential tools to move us to a cleaner economy and environment," said Congresswoman Clark. "With a Center of Excellence, we will dramatically increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the offshore wind industry in the U.S. and help offshore wind energy become cost-competitive. Massachusetts is primed to lead the way on this effort and I'm grateful that my colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee voted to take this significant step forward toward a better future for our workers, environment, and communities."