Louisiana has long been a leader in American energy production, with decades of experience in offshore oil and gas. That same knowledge and infrastructure now gives us a strategic advantage in a growing market: Offshore wind.
This is not a partisan issue; it’s a Louisiana opportunity. Offshore wind development means more jobs for welders, mariners, engineers, and energy workers who already know how to build and maintain offshore structures. It means more demand for our ports, shipbuilders and manufacturing base.
Just as important, offshore wind contributes to energy security. It diversifies our energy portfolio, reduces our reliance on foreign adversaries, and helps stabilize the grid, all priorities for conservatives and policymakers focused on national defense.
And as power demand continues to grow at a rapid pace, American offshore wind energy must be a key player in meeting that demand. Louisiana’s legacy as an energy powerhouse can continue through innovation and leadership in offshore wind.
With smart policy and support from both state and federal lawmakers, we can build on what we do best: Powering America. Let’s urge our leaders to embrace this all-of-the-above energy strategy and make Louisiana the Gulf’s wind energy hub.
Will Hardy is the state director for Conservatives for Clean Energy – Louisiana.
This article was originally published at www.thecentersquare.com
