Liz Burdock, President & CEO, Business Network for Offshore Wind
In the U.S., Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, count your blessings and give thanks. One of my family traditions is to share why you are thankful. As I reflect on the last year, I am truly thankful every day that I work in offshore wind, an industry that is full of passionate and committed professionals. Offshore wind developers, manufacturers, suppliers and labor organizations are working hard to deliver new economic opportunities to Americans while reversing the effects of climate change.
During the course of the year we are so busy with everyday work, we sometimes neglect to pause for a moment to give thanks for how much the industry is growing. The U.S. now has 8,240 megawatts (MW) under development. State governors, legislatures and energy agencies are boldly moving forward on huge offshore wind programs and projects. By the end of 2019, we will have more than 23,000 MW comprising our U.S. market, with state financial commitments available to help develop offshore wind projects. I want to thank the state policy makers who are pushing the United States forward to a clean energy future and making sure offshore wind is a major component of the energy mix.
Finally, I also feel extremely fortunate to be surrounded by staff and Business Network Members I consider family. The hard work of our team has helped the Network grow to 350+ members and deliver the best technical and networking events in the United States. We have connected over 6,000 people from more than 1500 companies.
It has been an exciting year so far, and there is much to be thankful for in 2019—and great things to come in 2020.