Abstract
Offshore winds on the U.S. West Coast represent one of the most energetic and consistent renewable energy resources in the nation. Harnessing these winds is a possibly viable technological pathway to meet decarbonization goals. Floating offshore wind energy is in a period of rapid global research, development, and deployment. Proposed lease areas in Oregon are in far deeper ocean waters than previously attempted for offshore wind, which leads to uncertainty for many government, community, tribal, and industry parties. Any potential development of floating offshore wind energy is far more likely to succeed with collaborative and capacity-generating engagement among diverse interested and affected parties.