North American Windpower: Connecticut Environmental Coalition Wades Into Offshore Wind

by NAW Staff on Wednesday 25 July 2012

An environmental coalition from Connecticut, a state not exactly known for its strong offshore wind resources, has joined a national effort to support policy incentivizing offshore wind, such as an extension of the investment tax credit.

In an open letter to President Obama, the environmental coalition stresses the need for federal leadership to move away from fossil fuels that threaten the environment, public health and national security. It applauds the Obama administration for its efforts over the last year, specifically the actions of U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Salazar and his department for their "Smart from the Start" initiative, which is intended to speed up development of offshore wind projects.

"The possibility of offshore wind represents significant amounts of energy that we can capture to reduce pollution and grow the clean energy economy," says Emily Grand, a spokesperson from Environment Connecticut. "Our letter shows broad agreement among environmental groups and a diversity of other stakeholders in calling on our state and national leaders to act to steadily ramp up the development of offshore wind."

To date, the DOI's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has designated wind energy areas off the coast of six Atlantic states: New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

In addition to federal support, the 217 members of the coalition urge the Obama administration to set a bold goal for offshore wind in the Atlantic; ensure that offshore wind projects are sited, constructed and operated responsibly; and provide the DOI and BOEM with sufficient staff and resources.

Don't miss the latest wind energy news -- register to receive NAW's news headlines.

Latest Top Stories

As U.S. DOJ Investigates, Duke Works Adaptive Management Plan

With previous golden eagle fatalities reported at two company-owned wind farms in Wyoming, Duke Energy Renewables is going to great lengths to protect raptors.

DOE To Recast Landmark 20% Wind Energy Report; Study Looks Back, Ahead

The U.S. Department of Energy will update its 20% Wind Energy By 2030 report, which indicated increased levels of wind penetration for the U.S. is not only possible but feasible.

Wind Energy Procurement Top Of Mind For Big-Name Companies

With greater frequency, top-tier companies are discovering the economic and environmental power of wind energy and upping their investments in the resource.

WINDPOWER Panelists Issue A Call To Arms: Protect RPS Mandates

Votes on several legislative bills concerning state renewable portfolio standards (RPS) are nearing. How can you help protect and maintain these development drivers?

Wind Industry Still Awaits First Eagle-Take Permit Under BGEPA

The first wind developer to apply for a take permit under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act has withdrawn its application.