Offshore wind farms

 Northern European nations have pioneered the development of offshore wind farms, with large developments located along the coasts of Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom.  There have been complaints about the structures spoiling the view and maritime interests have expressed concern that the facilities might impact the safety of navigation.  But, large offshore winds farms are now producing renewable energy for nearby communities and more such farms are in the construction and planning stages throughout Europe.  The situation is different in the United States.  Cape Wind, the first offshore wind farm in the US, was first proposed more than ten years ago, to be constructed in Nantucket Sound and to supply electricity to the Cape Cod area.  Local residents, including Ted Kennedy and Walter Cronkite, strongly opposed it on the basis that it would adversely affect the esthetics of the area.  Concern was also expressed that the structures would create a hazard to navigation, as well as a possible hazard to migrating birds.  These latter issues are being examined.  Recently, the issue was raised whether the planned facility might have an adverse impact on historic Native American sites.  This issue has drawn the attention of Ken Salazar, Secretary of the Interior.  The Cape Wind saga continues.  Meanwhile, offshore wind farms are being considered for New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia, and Texas, among other coastal states.  As the nation’s need for additional energy – particularly renewable energy – rises, offshore wind farms are a natural fit.  Like so many things these days, the issues are complex.  Each potential project presents its unique challenges.  Only time will tell how the competing viewpoints are reconciled.