Governor Maura Healey and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) have announced funding for 20 projects to support offshore wind and maritime workforce development, as well as research into fisheries, wildlife and the marine environment.
The funding totals $4.2 million, with $1.7 million supporting eight projects through the Offshore Wind Works programme and $2.5 million supporting 12 projects through the Offshore Wind Science, Research and Analysis programme.
The Offshore Wind Works funding will help develop a workforce capable of planning, deploying, operating, maintaining and manufacturing components for offshore wind projects. The skills and qualifications developed through the projects can also be applied in clean energy, maritime, construction and port-based industries.
Since its launch in 2018, Offshore Wind Works has supported 35 recipients and attracted additional cost-sharing. This year's awards cover workforce training and upskilling, training equipment and infrastructure, and career exploration and education.
The Offshore Wind Science, Research and Analysis programme will support research related to the responsible development and operation of offshore wind in Southern New England and the Gulf of Maine.
Each project has a direct connection to a Massachusetts-based business or research institution, a Massachusetts-based intern, or both. The awards will also create at least seven paid internships for students at Massachusetts universities, providing practical experience in offshore wind research.
