Despite opposition from the Trump administration, California is continuing its offshore wind energy projects. State officials, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, aim for offshore wind to generate 5 gigawatts by 2030 and 25 gigawatts by 2045. In 2022, five companies invested $751.1 million in leases to develop wind farms off Morro Bay and Humboldt Bay. Although Trump attempted to halt offshore wind leasing, state leaders remain optimistic, citing California’s economic strength and funding from Proposition 4. The Port of Long Beach is investing $4.7 billion in infrastructure to support turbine assembly. However, local opposition exists, particularly from fishermen and environmental groups concerned about marine ecosystems and aesthetics. Unlike the East Coast, California’s turbines will be floating structures tethered to the seabed. The projects are in early development, with completion expected in the coming years.
