US Wind’s project off Worcester County recently picked up additional state approvals, but some hurdles still block construction.
Maryland’s Department of the Environment has granted US Wind an air quality permit-to-construct for its offshore wind project off the coast of Worcester County. The permit, effective June 6, 2025, includes approvals under New Source Review and Prevention of Significant Deterioration regulations. It allows for the installation of up to 121 wind turbines, four offshore substations, and a meteorological tower roughly 10 nautical miles from shore. The decision followed a public engagement process and reflects the state’s determination that the project complies with all applicable air quality standards.
This state-level approval builds on federal clearance granted by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management in December 2024, paving the way for US Wind to move forward with developing between 1.7 and 2.2 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity. However, some project components—particularly those related to onshore transmission in Delaware—still face regulatory hurdles. A recent denial by Sussex County is under appeal, and any legal challenges filed before July 14, 2025, could impact the project’s timeline.
