NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ—Support for the development of offshore wind turbines in New Jersey has seen a significant decline, particularly in coastal areas, according to a recent poll by the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University. While 50% of New Jersey residents still support the state’s initiative to build wind turbines off the coast to generate electricity, this number represents a 30 percentage point drop from 2019 when support was at 80%.

Residents of coastal communities show the steepest decline in support, with only 33% currently in favor compared to 77% four years ago. The main concerns cited include potential harm to marine life and the obstruction of ocean views.

The U.S. Interior Department approved the Ocean Wind 1 project last July, which includes the construction and operation of 98 wind turbines and up to three offshore substations.

That project came to a halt when the vendor bailed on New Jersey.

Following a decision by its Board of Directors, Ørsted ceased development of the Ocean Wind 1 and Ocean Wind 2 projects (1100MW project and 1148 MW projects). The projects have experienced significant impacts from macroeconomic factors, including high inflation, rising interest rates and supply chain constraints, particularly a vessel delay on Ocean Wind 1 that considerably impacted project timing.

Statewide, 72% of residents express concern about climate change, with 51% emphasizing the importance of state action to combat it. Yet, there are mixed feelings about the benefits of renewable energy such as wind power, with 52% believing it will improve the climate. However, less than half of the respondents think it will positively impact local job opportunities, energy costs, or the reliability of electricity. Additionally, 48% oppose tax breaks for companies building wind turbines.

Concerns about the impact of wind turbines on ocean views and marine life are notable, with 71% believing turbines will affect views and 68% concerned about impacts on marine life. Tourism impacts are also a concern, with 55% believing that turbines will affect shore tourism either a great deal or somewhat.

These findings highlight the complex balance between environmental initiatives and local economic and aesthetic concerns, particularly in regions directly impacted by such projects.

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Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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