OCEAN CITY, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey is moving aggressively to become the leader in the fast-growing offshore wind energy industry on the East Coast, but not everyone is on board. The state’s Democratic political leadership is solidly behind a rapid build-out of wind energy projects off the coast, but opposition is growing among citizens groups. Even some environmentalists are wary of the pace and scope of the plans. The most commonly voiced objections include the unknown effect hundreds or even thousands of wind turbines might have on the ocean, fears of higher electric bills as costs are passed on to consumers, and a sense that the entire undertaking is being rushed through with little understanding of what the consequences might be. Recreational and commercial fishermen have long felt left out of the planning for offshore wind, much of which will take place in prime fishing grounds.
New Jersey becoming leader in offshore wind energy
