TOMS RIVER, NJ – A recent hearing on offshore wind projects, attended by Atlantic Coast lawmakers, has sparked intense debate over the impact of these initiatives on the economy, public safety, and tourism. The hearing, which included representatives from different states, highlighted significant apprehensions regarding the development of offshore wind farms.
Representative Jeff Van Drew, a Republican from Cape May, New Jersey, voiced strong opposition to offshore wind projects in an interview with Fox News. According to Van Drew, the primary concern emerging from the hearing is that these projects offer “nothing good” and could severely impact various sectors, including the food supply chain, specifically seafood.
New Jersey, known for its significant clamming industry and fishing activities crucial for both recreational and economic purposes, could face detrimental effects due to these projects. Van Drew emphasized the potential harm to the seafood industry, environmental damage, and increased utility costs as major issues associated with offshore wind farms.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has ignored opposition to offshore wind energy and has continued his push to build massive offshore wind farms despite major recent set backs.
Highlighting the risks, Van Drew pointed out the use of lubricants in wind turbines, which could pose a threat to marine life. He also mentioned the untested resilience of these installations against Atlantic hurricanes, a challenge that European wind farms, where wind power is popular, have not faced.
The concerns were further compounded by the recent withdrawal of Danish green power company Ørsted from New Jersey’s coast. Despite the support of Democratic Governor Phil Murphy and taxpayer funding, the company’s pullout raised questions about the viability of such projects.
Representative Christopher Smith, a Republican from Toms River, New Jersey, and Representative Andy Harris, a Republican from Maryland, also took part in the Ocean City, Maryland, hearing. Tjere is now a growing apprehension among lawmakers regarding the potential adverse effects of offshore wind projects on local economies and environments along the Atlantic Coast.