Wittman Applauds Renewable Energy Development, Encourages Administration to Allow Virginia to Develop More Energy Resources

Washington, DC - Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) today released a statement following the announcement by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) that a site off Virginia's coast has been selected for an offshore wind energy lease sale.

According to the announcement, BOEM will hold its second competitive lease sale for renewable energy on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). The auction, scheduled to take place on Sept. 4, will offer nearly 112,800 acres offshore Virginia for commercial wind energy leasing.

"I am pleased that the Administration is moving forward to develop renewable energy off the coast of Virginia that will boost U.S. energy production and Virginia jobs," Wittman said. "This is an important step forward in developing Virginia's resources. However, this is also a reminder that Virginia's other resources continue to be locked up by the Administration, despite bipartisan support at all levels of government for increased exploration of such resources as oil and natural gas. I encourage the Administration to reconsider its adamant to what will be a safe, responsible use of all our natural resources and a sound, all-of-the-above energy policy." Wittman has led previous efforts to encourage the Administration to reconsider its decision to ban energy development off the coast of Virginia, while insisting on coordination with the military to ensure their continuity of operations. Wittman has long been an advocate for American energy exploration in Virginia, supporting multiple pieces of congressional legislation to open up domestic resources. He is also an advocate for renewable energy, including offshore wind, supporting an all-of-the-above energy policy.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee, where he is a member of the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, Oceans and Insular Affairs, and the Subcommittee on Energy and Minerals Resources. He also serves on the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee.

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