California is moving forward with its offshore wind energy plans, convening the 2026 Pacific Offshore Wind Summit in Long Beach on May 19-20, 2026. The summit highlights the role of ports in supporting the state's clean energy transition and energy security goals.
According to the California Energy Commission, the state aims to develop 25 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity by 2045, with a near-term target of 5 GW by 2030. The summit brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and labor representatives to discuss port infrastructure upgrades needed to support floating offshore wind turbines off the California coast.
Governor Gavin Newsom has emphasized that offshore wind is critical for meeting the state's 100% clean electricity target by 2045. The Long Beach port is being considered as a key assembly and staging site for offshore wind projects in federal waters off Central and Northern California.
The event also focuses on workforce development, with sessions on training programs for jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of offshore wind components. The California Workforce Development Board has allocated funds for training in the offshore wind sector.