What Is the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)?

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is the U.S. Government agency that leases offshore areas on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) for energy development, including offshore renewable energy such as offshore wind. The organization’s goal is to responsibly manage OCS energy and resources in the interest of energy independence, environmental sustainability, economic development, and national security. BOEM utilizes the expertise of scientists and technical professionals who share information and research that contributes to the bureau’s decision making. The bureau is part of the U.S. Department of Interior. BOEM’s sister agency—the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement or BSEE—enforces offshore safety, environmental and other requirements in tandem with BOEM issued leases and works closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and other federal and state agencies. BOEM has reported that OCS production accounts for approximately 18 percent of the nation’s crude oil supply and 4 percent of the domestic natural gas supply. BOEM is currently engaged in an extensive offshore wind leasing program with a number of leases already existing for wind farms off the U.S. East Coast.

Winston & Strawn attorneys regularly speak and write about BOEM regulations affecting the U.S. offshore wind industry. Visit the MaritimeFedWatch Blog for the latest developments or view our webinar featuring Department of Interior and BOEM regulators here.