THE NATIONAL ACADEMIES OF SCIENCES, ENGINEERING, AND MEDICINE
Center for Health, People, and Places
Earth Systems and Resources Program Area
Committee on Impacts on Shipping and Commercial, Tribal, and Recreational Fisheries from Development of Renewable Energy on the West Coast
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Congressional Briefing
Monday, March 16, 2026 – 3:00 p.m.
via Zoom
on
Offshore Renewable Energy Development on the West Coast:
Understanding Effects on Shipping, Fisheries, and Maritime Activities
Requested by Congress in P.L. 117-263, the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023, this report examines how offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy development may impact shipping routes, fisheries, port operations, and Coast Guard activities. Drawing on lessons from earlier offshore wind projects along the East Coast and current West Coast planning processes, this report identifies opportunities to proactively address potential conflicts, strengthen coordination, and support coexistence among ocean users.
Highlights of the report can be found here.
This briefing was for members of Congress and congressional staff only. The report was publicly released on March 17, 2026 and can be found, in its entirety, on the Web site of the National Academies Press.