A new lawsuit and Trump’s executive order threaten New Jersey’s offshore wind projects, raising concerns among advocates and local groups.
The group Save LBI is suing federal agencies and Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, which is set to kick off New Jersey’s first offshore wind project. It’s a big deal, and they’re not alone in their concerns.
Rep. Jeff Van Drew, who represents southern New Jersey, is backing Trump’s draft order to stop offshore wind work along the East Coast. He’s pretty vocal about it, saying these projects shouldn’t have been approved in the first place. He believes they were rushed through without proper checks and could lead to economic and environmental issues.
New Jersey has three offshore wind projects lined up, and supporters argue they’re crucial for meeting energy demands and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. But the opposition is strong.
Paulina O’Connor from the New Jersey Offshore Wind Alliance insists that these projects go through thorough reviews and public hearings. She believes offshore wind is key for energy independence and job creation.
However, Trump has been vocal against wind energy, calling it expensive and harmful to marine life. He’s even said he wants to stop new windmills from being built.
Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind plans to set up a massive turbine array off Atlantic City, which could power around 700,000 homes. But local groups worry about the impact on marine life and tourism.
Save LBI’s attorney argues that the federal agencies didn’t consider the potential harm to marine populations. They’re worried about noise from construction affecting endangered species like the North Atlantic right whale.
But NOAA Fisheries says there’s no evidence linking offshore wind to whale deaths. They believe marine animals will likely avoid the construction areas.
Despite reassurances, local groups are still pushing back. Organizations like Save The East Coast and Defend Our Beaches have gathered thousands of signatures to block the project.
It’s clear that the community is passionate about this issue. Many believe they should have a say in such significant decisions.
Interestingly, a report from Brown University suggests that some anti-offshore wind groups are linked to fossil fuel interests. They’ve received substantial donations from organizations opposing climate policies.
Van Drew is determined to support the anti-wind movement, claiming the executive order is just the start of their efforts to halt offshore wind projects in the U.S. He’s ready to fight for the coastal communities he represents.
This situation is evolving, and it’s definitely one to keep an eye on as it unfolds.
