BALTIMORE (AP) — A study produced for the Maryland Energy Administration says Baltimore has the potential to become a hub for offshore wind power companies.

The combination of the steel mill at Sparrows Point and the city’s port facilities could allow it to overcome the disadvantage of being further from the coast than competing ports. However, study author Nick Abstoss says attracting companies would require private investment in port facilities and other infrastructure.

The studies released Wednesday come as legislators are considering bills supported by the governor and the MEA to require offshore wind power production in Maryland. The bills mark the second time in two years the governor is trying to pass offshore wind legislation. A bill was killed by lawmakers last year over concerns about its costs to utility customers.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)