Maybe now Bluewater and similar projects will actually be able to see progress.
If I'm recalling correctly, one of the hardest parts for these projects was the fact that there was simply no legislation in place detailing how to get a permit for, say, an offshore wind farm. Now, finally, that problem is being addressed.
The article also mentions Cape Wind, although it suggest that the controversial project's future is still in doubt. Tourism in the area is still a powerful force, as well as other ecological considerations, and may override the call for more renewable energy. Still, just because Cape Wind is struggling doesn't mean that there's no hope for less... vigorously defended seascapes, shall we say? Personally, I have my doubts that Cape Wind will ever make it, but I've been wrong before, many times. And certainly, if all we've been learning about Bluewater is any indication, wind power has some serious potential even in our area.
I just have one reservation about this: one of the unexpected advantages of the slowness of developing wind farms is that project members have had to work hard to justify themselves, ecologically speaking. They've put a lot of effort into making sure the wind farm will do as little harm as possible. I'm not saying that federal standards for permits will be lax -- and certainly, reducing arbitrary red tape is good for everyone, including the environment -- but expediting the process means less time spent deliberating. With offshore wind still untested in U.S. waters, I find myself wondering if maybe, just for a little while, it's better to go slow.
Good points. I was surprised to see that 170 preliminary permits have been issued. Does this mean that we can expect an avalanche of off shore energy development in the near future? Also interesting--the extent to which Cape Wind has become a metaphor for renewable energy controversy. Whether it ultimately succeeds or fails, the Cape Wind project will probably continue to be emblematic of the enormous challenges that the country will face as it tries to modernize its energy infrastructure.
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