BARNEGAT LIGHT, N.J. — Standing in front of the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Spadia sharply criticized wind energy projects along the Jersey Shore, calling them inefficient, costly, and a threat to the state’s environment and tourism industry.
“New Jerseyans deserve clean, affordable, efficient energy,” Spadia said in a video filmed at Barnegat Bay. “And let me tell you something—it’s not going to come from wind power.”
Spadia outlined several arguments against offshore wind projects, claiming they are among the least efficient energy sources and require substantial fossil fuel use for construction, maintenance, and lubrication of wind turbines. He also warned of rising energy costs and potential disruption to shore communities.
“Not only is wind power rated among the least efficient… they’re not telling you the truth about all the fossil fuels that are going to be used,” Spadia stated, citing diesel for ships, oil for turbine gearboxes, and frequent repairs due to saltwater corrosion.
The former television host and conservative commentator also expressed concerns about land use, suggesting wind projects would require pipelines that could affect private property and the state’s coastal tourism industry. Instead, Spadia advocated for natural gas and nuclear power as cleaner, more reliable alternatives.
“It’s time to stand up to these big international corporations and woke politicians that want to sell you a bill of goods that’s going to take your land, ruin our Jersey Shore, and cost you more money,” he said.
Spadia also took a swipe at one of his Republican opponents, mocking their proposal for “floating windmills” and contrasting it with his own vision of protecting “the rights and our beautiful Garden State.”
The video, part of Spadia’s campaign for the Republican nomination ahead of the June 3 primary, reflects a growing debate in New Jersey over renewable energy initiatives and the future of the state’s power infrastructure.
