Two Georgia Tech units and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources have partnered to launch a new tool that will define a clear process for offshore energy licensing and permitting in the state.

Georgia’s coastline has an infinite supply of natural wind and ocean resources that have the potential to substantially contribute to the state’s energy supply. But developing these resources has moved slowly, in part, because state and federal laws regarding the use of coastal waters for energy development are still evolving and no structure is in place for granting permits.

To try and resolve this issue, Georgia Tech’s Center for Geographic Information Systems (CGIS) and Strategic Energy Institute in partnership with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR’s) Coastal Resources Division, have launched a new marine spatial planning tool, called the Georgia Coastal and Marine Planner (GCAMP).

The tool also aims to close data and communication gaps between regulatory agencies that could delay the permitting process. The planning tool is live at its new address at: geospatial.gatech.edu/GCAMP.        

Sponsored through a five-year grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), GCAMP creates a central repository for public data and information relating to Georgia’s coastline. The application provides industry, governmental agencies, and research institutions engaged in the planning and management of Georgia’s ocean resources, with a series of tools and interactive maps to aid in the assessment of potential locations for offshore development.

“GCAMP establishes a transparent and open processes for fostering better understanding among stakeholders about what is happening in Georgia’s ocean areas, what resources and human uses are located where, and the potential implications of changes in the uses of resources located in the state’s coastal waters,” said Jill Huntington Andrews, program manager for Georgia DNR’s Coastal Resources Division.    

Read more about the application here.