Virginia selects company to promote offshore wind potential

The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) has selected BVG Associates to help the commonwealth strengthen its position to attract the offshore wind supply chain and service industry to the commonwealth.

BVG Associates, a United Kingdom-based company, will work to build on Virginia’s advantages and recommend ways to further enhance the commonwealth’s port assets and maritime workforce.

“It’s time for Virginia to take significant steps forward to secure our clean energy future, and I look forward to working with BVG Associates to establish Virginia as the prime location for the offshore wind industry, from the supply chain to the full build-out of Virginia’s offshore wind resources,” Gov. Ralph Northam said in a statement.

DMME issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) on May 21 seeking extensive offshore wind industry expertise to assist the commonwealth in its planning regarding industry supply chain, port infrastructure requirements, build-out of the various offshore wind supply chain sectors and long-term maritime service needs.

As part of this effort, BVG Associates is leveraging its North American and global partners with extensive offshore wind industry experience, including Ramboll Group A/S, Timmons Group, Greentree Consulting LLC, and the Business Network for Offshore Wind.

Virginia also has launched a website, www.vaoffshorewind.org, to educate asset holders and industry prospects about existing and potential supply chain businesses, assets and workforce.