Coalition Forms to Oppose New Jersey Offshore Wind Turbine Project

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October 2, 2024
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LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP, NJ — A coalition of New Jersey municipalities, organizations, and individuals has formed to challenge the state’s largest offshore wind turbine project. The Jersey Strong Coastal Coalition is requesting a review of the project following concerns over environmental and economic impacts as well as technical issues, including a recent blade malfunction.

The coalition, representing statewide support for responsible clean energy, opposes the fast-tracked installation of 300 offshore wind turbines along the coasts of Ocean and Atlantic counties. The turbines, standing over 1,000 feet tall, will be located just 8.4 miles off the Jersey Shore.

The project, led by Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, LLC—a partnership between Shell Oil and Électricité de France—aims to be the most concentrated and largest wind turbine development in the U.S.

Over 50 New Jersey mayors and governing bodies have passed resolutions requesting a pause on the project, citing violations of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Coastal Zone Management regulations. The coalition is calling for a review of the environmental hazards, technical feasibility, and potential economic consequences before construction begins.

The coalition highlighted concerns related to a malfunctioning turbine blade in Nantucket this summer and a recent request from another wind company in New Jersey to delay their project. “We have many unanswered questions,” the coalition stated. “We need to defend our coast and ensure these concerns are addressed.”

Local officials, including Long Beach Township Mayor Joseph Mancini, expressed worries about tourism and the risk of environmental damage. An economic analysis predicted a $668 million yearly loss in tourism for the LBI region, along with $47.6 million in lost tax revenue for the state.

Mayor Vince Sera of Brigantine added that the project could significantly increase energy costs, potentially raising electricity rates by up to 55%.

The shore municipalities have submitted letters to DEP outlining these concerns, but no adjustments have been made to the project’s timeline or scope. Legal representation for the coalition is being handled by Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C., advocating for transparency and accountability from state authorities.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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