NORFOLK, Va. — In recognition of the bureau’s expanded role and authorities for offshore renewable energy oversight, Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) Director Kevin Sligh traveled to Norfolk, Virginia, this week for an overview briefing of Virginia’s first commercial offshore wind project and to tour the Portsmouth Marine Terminal, which will support the project’s infrastructure. Paul Huang, Deputy Director for BSEE, and Cheri Hunter, Renewable Energy Operations Lead for BSEE, accompanied Director Sligh.
On Jan. 23, the BSEE leaders met with Dominion Energy to discuss the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project (CVOW), the Marine Terminal construction and also toured the crew transfer vessel in use by Dominion. BSEE is currently reviewing the safety management system for the commercial-scale project, a proposal to install up to 205 turbines that would generate up to 3 gigawatts of electricity.
“The transfer of offshore wind safety and environmental responsibilities to BSEE, provides regulatory clarity and signals a commitment to maintaining high standards for worker safety and environmental compliance,” said Director Sligh. “Every decision and every action must be taken with the safety of workers and protection of the environment in mind.”
Following the status briefing provided by Dominion executives and the tour, Director Sligh and the BSEE leaders emphasized their commitment to continued collaboration with industry partners and to providing transparency and consistency in regulating offshore renewable energy activities.
On Jan. 17, 2023, the Department of the Interior announced the transfer of regulations governing offshore renewable energy activities – including workplace safety and environmental compliance – from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE).
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