**Trump's Anti-Wind Stand Could Undermine California’s Clean Energy Ambitions**

California's burgeoning offshore wind energy sector finds itself in jeopardy as President-Elect Donald Trump threatens to dismantle federal support for the industry. Although Trump’s executive order cannot singlehandedly terminate the offshore wind industry, he can significantly cripple the state's renewable energy initiatives by cutting off crucial federal funding at a pivotal moment.

California’s offshore wind energy endeavors are set to benefit significantly from a federal policy providing billions in grants, subsidies, and tax incentives. Floating offshore wind farms are still relatively uncommon in the United States, but California aims to harness this technology to eliminate fossil fuels from its electric grid. The state’s energy strategy envisions offshore wind farms producing 25 gigawatts of electricity by 2045—enough to power 25 million homes and account for about 13% of the state’s power supply.

Recently, five offshore wind companies have invested $757 million leasing ocean tracts off Humboldt County and Morro Bay, signaling serious commitments despite the industry's infancy. These floating turbines, some as tall as 70-story buildings, require complementary infrastructure onshore, such as expanded ports and new transmission systems.

The Biden administration has promoted this initiative, calling it the “Floating Offshore Wind Shot.” However, with Trump threatening to withdraw federal support, the industry might face increased uncertainty. Despite a significant legislative victory in the bipartisan Inflation Reduction Act—securing $100 million for transmission development and a 30% tax credit—the sector’s prospects are shaky following Trump's election victory, which saw a decline in offshore wind company stocks.

Trump has a longstanding aversion to offshore wind turbines, criticizing them as "the most expensive energy there is" and claiming they harm the environment and wildlife. His grievances partly stem from his belief that turbines mar the view from his golf club in Scotland, and he has repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims that wind farms cause cancer and environmental damage.

Contrary to Trump’s assertions, scientists have found no evidence that offshore wind projects kill whales, and existing farms globally have had minimal impact on marine mammals. Nevertheless, researchers emphasize the need for more studies on the potential effects of increased sound and ship traffic on marine life in the Pacific Ocean.

The future of floating offshore wind is at a critical juncture, needing assurance from state and federal entities that support and policies will remain intact to maintain investor confidence. While California remains steadfast in its backing, buoyed by billions in investments and a recent $475 million boost for port infrastructure from Proposition 4, the federal landscape remains uncertain.

Adam Stern, executive director of the industry group Offshore Wind California, noted the sector's focus on state-level activities in the coming years. He stressed the importance of maintaining federal support to ensure grid reliability, promote energy independence, and create new jobs, hoping these priorities will resonate with both Democratic and Republican lawmakers.