The agency is reaching out to offshore wind developers for help in planning such a project. According to the U.S. Energy Department, the state's potential for wind power development offshore rivals that of the Midwestern U.S - conditions along the coasts are well-suited to generate wind energy, officials say.

"Offshore wind has the potential to supply more renewable energy than any other resource in the region," MEA Director Malcolm Woolf said in a statement. "If Maryland is able to successfully harness these resources in a cost-effective way, the state will be able to satisfy its renewable portfolio standard of 20 percent by 2022 and benefit from the growing renewable energy credit market."

Renewable projects like wind and solar power generate tradable credits that other companies can buy to satisfy regional or state carbon emissions standards.

Responses to the request for interest are due Jan. 31. The MEA is seeking information about the expected capacity of offshore wind power, the technology that could be used, possible economic development impacts and financial challenges. Submissions don't commit companies to any action or deals.

The MEA is also launching a study evaluating the opportunities for offshore wind power on the Atlantic Coast and Outer Continental Shelf. The study is expected to be released in early 2010