Measuring community impact for US offshore wind development.
Momentum is building for offshore wind in the United States. A growing number of projects are underway, supported by billions of dollars in federal and industry investment. And now, a five-year research initiative is making it a national priority to understand the energy justice implications of this burgeoning renewable energy sector. The project, kicked off in 2024, evaluates equity in the social, economic, and environmental outcomes of offshore wind energy development.
Boston University’s Institute for Global Sustainability (IGS) partners with the University of Rhode Island and the University of Delaware on this multi-million dollar study funded by the US Department of Energy’s Wind Energy Technologies Office. The team brings together experts in energy policy, environmental science, and community engagement to evaluate and monitor the potential effects of this transition.
Research Approach and Goals
Offshore wind promises a renewable energy future but poses unique opportunities and challenges for communities in offshore wind ports. This project identifies diverse energy justice indicators—economic, demographic, attitudinal, procedural, and quality-of-life factors—and collects qualitative and quantitative data. Key to its approach is co-producing this knowledge with community organizations and other local partners in several different locations, including New London, Connecticut; New Bedford, Massachusetts; and Sparrows Point, Maryland. The goal is to ensure these communities are served by programs such as workforce development and other opportunities, as well as inform policy and shape industry practices for equitable clean energy growth. The findings will be far-reaching for offshore wind development, throughout the US and globally.
Project Leaders
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Rebecca Pearl-Martinez
Executive Director, IGS
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Benjamin Sovacool
Director, IGS; Professor, Earth & Environment, College of Arts & Sciences
