The California legislature passed AB 2537, which authorizes the California Energy Commission (CEC) to provide “capacity building” grants to tribes and local communities to enhance their ability to engage in the planning, development, and mitigation of offshore wind development. A lack of resources is preventing local communities from participating in offshore wind energy planning conversations, according to the bill’s author. Governor Gavin Newsom has until September 30, 2024 to sign or veto the bill.
These grants are intended for these communities to engage in the process of offshore wind energy development, including activities related to consultation, participation in project planning and development, programs connecting members of tribal nations and underrepresented communities to careers in science, technology, engineering, and math, and the development and implementation of local and tribal benefit agreements.
The bill would require certain offshore wind developers to provide financial assistance to fund those activities and grants for the three-year period after the offshore wind entity executes an offshore wind lease. The bill would make a continuous appropriation by expanding uses for which program funds can be allocated.