RICHMOND – Virginia is the first state in the U.S. to receive a wind energy research lease in federal waters. Governor Terry McAuliffe told the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce today that with the lease, Virginia will be the first state to build wind turbines in the Atlantic Ocean, a big step toward a “clean energy economy.” Virginia Commerce and Trade Secretary Maurice Jones says the state is now “well-positioned to become the east coast hub of future offshore wind energy development.” The lease was issued by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management.