Google has made a major step forward in its clean energy journey by signing its first offshore wind power purchase agreement (PPA) in the Asia-Pacific region. The deal is with the Fengmiao I offshore wind project in Taiwan, being developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP). It is a milestone for both Google and the Taiwanese offshore wind sector.

Once completed in 2027, Fengmiao I will have a capacity of 495 megawatts (MW). Google will use this clean energy to power its data center, cloud region, and offices in Taiwan. This is part of Google’s plan to run on carbon-free energy all the time, in every place it operates by 2030.

A Landmark for Offshore Wind in Taiwan

The Fengmiao I project is the first from Taiwan’s Round 3.1 offshore wind auction to reach financial close. This achievement could spark further development in the country’s renewable energy sector.

Taiwan is facing rising electricity demand and climate goals, so it aims to cut fossil fuel use. The plan is to boost renewable energy, like wind and solar.

Google’s support for Fengmiao I shows other tech companies and investors that offshore wind energy in Asia is important and viable. I-Chun Hsiao, Senior Lead for APAC at Google Energy and Infrastructure, says this project is vital. It helps Google’s clean energy goals and boosts Taiwan’s energy security.

Supporting 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy Goals

Google’s partnership with CIP in Taiwan builds on its broader efforts to operate on 24/7 carbon-free energy. Since 2020, Google has aimed to match its electricity use with carbon-free energy every hour in all its locations. It’s not just about buying enough renewable energy each year. It’s about having clean power available all the time.

Google’s Carbon-Free Map with Data Center Operations

To achieve this, Google has invested in various energy technologies and projects across the globe. In Taiwan, this includes solar and geothermal energy agreements. For example, in 2024, Google partnered with BlackRock to invest in a portfolio of solar projects from New Green Power.

The company also signed a geothermal energy deal with Baseload Capital to diversify its energy sources.

• READ MORE: Google Ignites Taiwan’s First Corporate Geothermal Deal for 24/7 Clean Energy

These efforts in Taiwan are part of Google’s global clean energy strategy. The company has signed over 80 renewable energy agreements worldwide. This effort adds more than 10 gigawatts (GW) of new clean energy capacity to global grids.

Why Offshore Wind?

Offshore wind energy is a crucial solution for reducing carbon emissions in electricity systems. This is especially true in areas with little land available. Offshore wind turbines can generate more power than their onshore counterparts due to higher and more consistent wind speeds over the oceans.

The Fengmiao I project will have a capacity of 495 MW. This energy will power hundreds of thousands of homes in Taiwan. It aims to meet rising energy demands and lower emissions. The energy generated will be delivered to Google facilities via the local grid, contributing to the company’s hourly carbon-free energy targets.

Globally, offshore wind capacity is growing rapidly. The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) reports that over 64 GW of offshore wind power was installed globally by the end of 2023. If supportive policies remain in place, capacity could hit 380 GW by 2035.

In 2024, 8 gigawatts (GW) of new offshore wind power were connected to the grid around the world, per the GWEC report. This brought the total global offshore wind capacity to 83.2 GW by the end of the year.

• However, the new additions were 26% lower than in 2023. Even so, 2024 was still the 4th-best year ever for offshore wind growth.

Taiwan is considered a regional leader, aiming to install 15 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2035.

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Their Role

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, the developer behind Fengmiao I, is a leading investor in energy transition projects. The company just closed its CI V flagship fund. It raised over €12 billion (US$13.1 billion) to support clean energy projects in safe countries.

CIP has previously worked with Google on other offshore wind projects, making this the second PPA between the two companies. CIP signed deals with several Taiwanese companies. These include United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), Sino-American Silicon Products, Far EasTone Telecommunications, and MediaTek. These partnerships highlight the growing demand for reliable and sustainable energy in Taiwan’s high-tech economy.

Google’s Clean Energy Journey

Google was the first major company to become carbon neutral in 2007 and has been matching its global electricity use with 100% renewable energy since 2017. However, the company acknowledged that annual matching is not enough to fully eliminate carbon emissions from its operations.

In fact, its total emissions grew in 2024 compared to 2023 by 48%. That’s why the 24/7 carbon-free energy goal was introduced.

This approach aims to solve one of the biggest challenges in clean energy—variability. Solar and wind power generation depend on the weather, which doesn’t always match demand.

Google aims to use a mix of energy sources. This includes solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, and batteries, with the goal to provide clean energy all day and night.

As of early 2024, Google was operating on around 66% carbon-free energy on an hourly basis across its data centers and offices. The company shares progress in its annual Environmental Report. It also pushes for grid upgrades and policy changes to support decarbonization.

Offshore Wind as a Cornerstone of Google’s Strategy

Google’s offshore wind deal in Taiwan is more than a business deal. It shows the company’s strong commitment to sustainability and innovation. By integrating offshore wind with solar and geothermal energy, Google is creating a clean, flexible, and reliable power system for one of its key operational regions.

This project also marks a turning point for offshore wind development in Asia, with Taiwan emerging as a leader in the region. Google’s role should boost investment and use of clean energy tech across the continent.

As global energy demands rise, so does the need for climate action. Initiatives like Fengmiao I show how the private sector can help build a low-carbon future, one project at a time.

• FURTHER READING: Equinor’s $3B Financing Deal for Empire Wind 1 Project: A Turning Point for U.S. Offshore Wind?

The post Google Rides the Wind: First Offshore Wind Deal in Asia Pacific For 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy appeared first on Carbon Credits.

The United States is facing a major challenge in its clean energy journey. In April 2025, the U.S. federal government ordered a pause on construction of Equinor’s Empire Wind project, a $5 billion offshore wind farm planned to supply clean energy to New York City. This decision, led by U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum under President Donald Trump’s administration, has raised questions about the future of offshore wind in the country.

Empire Wind Anchored: $5B Project Comes to a Sudden Stop

Empire Wind was expected to be one of the largest offshore wind farms in the U.S., with 54 turbines located about 15–30 miles off Long Island. The site was planned to deliver 810 megawatts (MW) of power—enough to supply about 500,000 homes. Construction started in 2024 at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, with full operation planned by 2027.

The project was part of a contract with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and had already received both federal and state permits. The decision to stop work came as part of a broader federal review of offshore wind projects, with officials claiming the project was approved too quickly under the Biden administration.

Equinor responded by pausing work and saying it would engage with the government to understand the new requirements. The company is also considering legal options to fight the order.

• READ MORE about the project: Equinor’s $3B Financing Deal for Empire Wind 1 Project: A Turning Point for U.S. Offshore Wind?

A Shift in Federal Energy Policy

The pause is not just about one project—it’s part of a wider change in energy policy. In January 2025, President Trump signed an executive order that paused all new offshore wind leases and required extra review of already-approved projects. The administration said the goal was to protect grid reliability and avoid rushed decisions.

But many experts and industry leaders are concerned. Jason Grumet, CEO of the American Clean Power Association, said,

“Doubling back to reconsider permits after projects are under construction sends a chilling signal to all energy investment.”

Others agree. The Oceantic Network, which supports offshore wind, said over $40 billion has already been invested in U.S. offshore wind energy projects. If more projects are delayed or canceled, it could affect jobs, local economies, and clean energy goals.

A Blow to New York’s Clean Energy Plans

The Empire Wind project was central to New York’s plan to get 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Governor Kathy Hochul criticized the federal move as “overreach” and promised to fight it. She said,

“I will fight this every step of the way to protect union jobs, affordable energy, and New York’s economic future.”

According to NYSERDA’s president, Doreen Harris, the project pause goes against the federal government’s own goals of encouraging local energy. She called offshore wind “a once-in-a-generation economic powerhouse.”

Offshore Wind in the US: Recent Growth and Challenges

Offshore wind has seen big growth in the U.S. in recent years, especially under the Biden administration. In 2024, the country added about 5.1 GW gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity in various stages of development. Total capacity for the same year is 80,523 MW, as shown below.

Although only two small offshore wind farms were operational (Block Island Wind Farm and Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind pilot project), major projects were in progress in several states, including New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and California.

In 2024, progress continued with projects like Vineyard Wind in Massachusetts, which began delivering power to the grid. But challenges also grew. Inflation, high costs, supply chain issues, and policy uncertainty have delayed or canceled some projects. Major companies like Shell and TotalEnergies pulled back from the sector, citing financial risks.

Now, the pause on Equinor’s Empire Wind adds a new layer of uncertainty.

What’s at Stake?

In 2025, the U.S. could add 7.7 gigawatts (GW) of wind power, per the IEA data. Nearly half of the new wind capacity would come from Texas, Wyoming, and Massachusetts.

If political actions continue to halt or delay offshore wind projects, the impact could be huge. Experts say that over 90% of the more than 60 GW of planned U.S. offshore wind capacity could be at risk. This includes dozens of projects across the East Coast and new efforts along the Pacific Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico.

Offshore wind is also key to meeting climate goals. It produces large amounts of clean electricity without greenhouse gas emissions. It helps replace fossil fuel power plants and supports growing energy demand from electric vehicles, data centers, and manufacturing.

The group E2, which tracks clean energy investments, said that in just the first three months of 2025, at least 16 clean energy projects worth a total of $8 billion were canceled. That number could grow if uncertainty continues.

Can the Grid Handle a Clean Energy Shift?

Some federal officials argue that slowing down offshore wind development is necessary to protect the reliability of the electric grid. With the U.S. adding more renewable energy and retiring coal and gas plants, there are concerns about whether the grid can handle the change.

But energy experts say that offshore wind and other renewables can support grid reliability if managed properly. Batteries and other energy storage solutions can store extra power for use when wind or solar is not available. Strong planning and smart grid technologies can also help.

A Turning Point for U.S. Offshore Wind: What’s Next?

Equinor is still in talks with the government and may try to restart the project. But for now, Empire Wind is paused. Other developers are watching closely. If the pause turns into a cancellation, it could discourage future investments in clean energy.

Meanwhile, there is strong public support for clean energy. Polls show that most Americans want more wind and solar power. Many states, like New York and California, have set ambitious climate goals. They plan to keep moving forward even if the federal government pulls back.

The Empire Wind pause is a key moment for U.S. offshore wind. It shows how political changes can affect long-term energy planning. It also highlights the risks companies take when investing in large infrastructure projects.

Whether this is a short pause or the start of a longer rollback will depend on what happens next. For now, the U.S. offshore wind industry faces a period of uncertainty—and the decisions made in the coming months could shape the future of clean energy in the country.

• READ MORE: US Biofuels Get Big Boost: USDA Invests $537M to Power America’s Clean Energy Future

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The Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council (Permitting Council) took a major step to speed up approvals for domestic mineral production. In response to President Trump’s executive order, Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production, the Council named 10 mining projects that will now benefit from a faster, more transparent federal permitting process.

These projects, targeting minerals like copper, antimony, lithium, and potash, have been granted FAST-41 status. This designation falls under a 2015 federal initiative that streamlines permitting for major infrastructure projects. The White House confirmed more projects will be added soon.

First Wave of Mineral Projects Gets Priority Review

The press release emphasized that all 10 projects are now listed on the Federal Permitting Dashboard, a public platform that tracks each project’s progress through the environmental review and permitting process. This move ensures:

• Greater transparency for project sponsors, communities, and federal agencies
• Public access to updated timelines and review statuses
• Increased accountability across federal review teams

These changes aim to boost American mineral production, support job growth, and cut down the country’s dependence on foreign mineral imports.

Projects on the Permitting Dashboard

The first group of FAST-41 projects includes:

• Resolution Copper Project
• Stibnite Gold Project
• Warrior Met Coal Mines
• McDermitt Exploration Project
• South West Arkansas Project
• Caldwell Canyon Mine Project
• Libby Exploration Project
• Lisbon Valley Copper Project
• Silver Peak Lithium Mine
• Michigan Potash Project

These sites were submitted by the chair of the National Energy Dominance Council (NEDC) and are the first batch in what the administration says will be a growing list.

Dashboard Offers Oversight, Not Federal Approval

The Federal order also highlighted an important point that being listed on the dashboard does not mean the federal government endorses or funds these projects. It also does not guarantee project approval. A project’s status can change if new information affects its review scope or requirements.

Still, this transparency effort gives a significant boost to more predictable and accountable permitting for critical mineral resources needed to fuel U.S. economic growth.

• RELATED: Trump’s Tactic to Make America Great Again: Expanding Domestic Oil, Gas, and Critical Minerals 

Trump Pushes for Faster U.S. Critical Mineral Production

The U.S. gets 70% of its rare earth minerals from China, which weakens the supply chain for important industries like defense, electronics, and renewable energy. China has also imposed export controls on key materials like gallium and germanium, further increasing the urgency for the U.S. to secure its resources.

On March 20, President Trump signed an executive order to boost the U.S. critical minerals supply chain. It allows the Defense Production Act (DPA) to fund mining and processing projects through the Department of Defense and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation. The goal is to speed up production of key minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earths, and possibly even coal.

The critical minerals list will also include uranium, copper, potash, and gold. The latest order includes a coal mine, signaling coal’s return to a more prominent role in the U.S. energy mix.

Perpetua Resources Set to Power U.S. Antimony

Critical minerals, particularly antimony, are key for military use. They support missile systems, fighter jets, and advanced communications technology. By expanding domestic production, the U.S. aims to strengthen its defense capabilities and reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions. Under these circumstances, Perpetua Resources Corp’s Stibnite Gold Project will play a major role in boosting domestic antimony supply.

The company announced that its Stibnite Gold Project is one of just 10 projects selected for the Federal Permitting Dashboard, ensuring faster reviews, better coordination, and public tracking.

Perpetua has received nearly $75 million from the U.S. Department of Defense under the Defense Production Act and a $1.8 billion Letter of Interest from the U.S. Export-Import Bank in 2024. The final federal permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is expected by Q2 2025. The U.S. Forest Service issued its final Record of Decision in January 2025.

The Idaho-based project is the only domestic source of antimony. With China banning antimony exports to the U.S., Stibnite could meet up to 35% of national demand in its first six years, according to the 2023 U.S. Geological Survey.

Jon Cherry, President and CEO of Perpetua Resources, said,

“Being recognized as a Transparency Project by the White House underscores the immense strategic value of the Stibnite Gold Project. We are honored by this selection, which validates the urgency and importance of our Project for America’s economic and national security. We stand ready to restore the site and bolster American mineral independence.”

• EXPLORE MORE: Is Trump’s Coal Comeback Derailing America’s Climate Commitments? 

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The UK government has rolled out an ambitious plan to become a world leader in green finance. Its goal is to create stronger, more transparent voluntary carbon and nature markets. These markets allow businesses to trade carbon credit certificates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through eco-friendly projects like reforestation or clean energy.

Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said:

“Building up trust in carbon and nature markets is crucial to their success in driving meaningful climate action and real, lasting change for the environment. The UK is determined to spearhead global efforts to raise integrity in these markets so they can channel the finance needed to tackle the climate crisis and speed up the global clean energy transition. These principles will cement the UK as the global hub for green finance and carbon markets. This is an opportunity to deliver on the climate crisis and drive investment and growth in the UK as part of our Plan for Change.”

Unlocking Green Finance for the Future

Each carbon credit equals one metric ton of carbon dioxide reduced or removed. Experts have predicted that the global demand for carbon credits is expected to soar. The voluntary carbon markets could grow to $250 billion by 2050, and nature-based markets could reach $69 billion.

The press release revealed that the UK government wants to make it easier and safer for companies to invest in such credits. They also aim to support high-integrity projects that protect nature and lower emissions.

Additionally, these markets can mobilize climate finance and support cleaner and greener operations. They will also deliver benefits for biodiversity and local communities.

However, these credits must be used the right way. They must show real results, not merely greenwash. And companies should use them to complement, not replace, their own efforts to cut emissions.

• READ MORE: What’s Next for Forest Carbon Credits? This UK Climate Tech Startup is Boosting Trust with Real-Time Data 

Tackling Confusion, Building Trust

Many businesses remain unsure about how to use carbon and nature credits. Others worry about whether the credits are doing any real good. To fix this, the UK is developing a new framework that makes the system more transparent and reliable.

Key steps include:

• Clear guidelines for buyers and sellers
• Full disclosure on how credits are used
• A focus on real environmental results
• Avoiding greenwashing in public claims

The government has also launched a 12-week consultation. It wants feedback from businesses, investors, and the public to help shape the final framework. The goal is to create a trusted and fair system that supports climate and nature goals in the UK and abroad.

Driving Growth in the Green Economy

The plan arrives at a time when the UK’s net-zero sector is booming. According to the government, this part of the economy is growing 3X faster than the average. Since July, clean energy industries have received more than £43.7 billion in private investment. Green jobs are also on the rise, with employment up over 10% last year.

The UK already has a strong position in climate diplomacy and green finance. Notably, London has topped the Z/Yen Green Finance Index for seven years constantly. And with companies like BeZero, Sylvera, and the London Stock Exchange Group pioneering climate finance solutions, the UK has set its global standards high.

Furthermore, it supports developing nations in accessing high-quality carbon finance.

UK Pushes for High-Quality Carbon Credits and Lower Emissions

As explained earlier, the new plan aims to attract billions in private investment to tackle climate change. At the same time, it will open new income streams for UK businesses, especially in farming and land use. By creating clear rules and boosting trust, the government wants to make the UK a global hub for carbon and nature trading.

Projects supported through these markets could include:

• Reforestation and peatland restoration
• Deployment of electric vehicles
• Renewable energy systems

The government is backing these efforts with a new set of six integrity principles. These rules will help ensure that only high-quality carbon credits are used and that businesses remain focused on cutting their emissions first, before turning to offsets.

Here’s the summary of these integrity principles

6 Integrity Principles in Voluntary Carbon and Nature Markets

The UK Government is asking for input on how these six principles can build stronger, more reliable carbon and nature markets:

1. Cut Emissions First, Then Use Credits
   Companies should cut their own emissions first. The Government may endorse the VCMI Code and wants feedback on helping firms meet it, along with views on scaling insetting to build trust.
2. Stick to Quality Credits
   Only use credits that actually make a difference. The Government plans to back ICVCM’s global standards and wants input on how to apply them in the UK, especially for nature-based projects.
3. Be Open About Credit Use
   Companies should be clear about how they use carbon credits. The government wants to hear what’s working and what’s not, and whether VCMI’s reporting guidance should be part of UK rules.
4. Include Credits in Climate Plans
   As UK firms publish climate plans that align with the 1.5°C goal, the Government wants feedback on how carbon credits can help them stay on track.
5. Make Clear Climate Claims
   Green claims should be simple and honest. The Government is looking at ways to define key terms and create a standard that keeps things clear and credible.
6. Team Up for Stronger Markets
   The Government is seeking views on how to improve alignment across the UK and internationally, and how clearer laws and regulations could build trust and understanding.

The government also highlighted that the voluntary markets allow companies to buy carbon credits voluntarily and are not meant for legal requirements like the UK Emissions Trading Scheme. All in all, UK’s goal is to build a top-tier carbon and nature credit market by setting high standards and transparency.

• SEE MORE: UK’s £22 Billion Carbon Capture and Storage Plan: A Bold Step or A Fossil Fuel Trap?

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