California - On September 6, NOAA announced the release of the final environmental impact statement (FEIS) of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (CHNMS). In response, Invenergy's Executive Vice President of Environmental Compliance and Strategy, Erin Lieberman, issued the following statement:
Invenergy’s Even Keel Wind offshore wind project applauds today’s announcement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which presents a modified proposal for designation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (CHNMS). NOAA’s modified proposal enables offshore wind developers’ access to Diablo Canyon infrastructure, which brings us one step closer to realizing California’s goal of reliably powering the state with renewable energy.
Invenergy recognizes the complexity of balancing solutions that prioritize ocean conservation, the protection of cultural resources, and the future of clean energy for all Californians. We commend the Biden-Harris Administration and NOAA for their leadership in protecting thousands of acres of sea space, while allowing for the safe and responsible development of offshore wind off the Central Coast. We also honor all the local Tribes and Indigenous Communities whose years of advocacy have made this designation a reality.