As the offshore wind industry expands in U.S. waters, it’s important to understand both the benefits and impacts offshore wind farms can have on our marine environment, coastal economies, and recreational use areas. Though the Surfrider Foundation (Surfrider) generally encourages the use of renewable energy to prevent the dangerous threats to our coasts and ocean from exacerbated climate change and fossil fuels, offshore wind farms need to be designed carefully to prevent negative ecological, economic and recreational impacts. At this point in the project, Surfrider is most concerned about the impacts to marine wildlife, consideration of cumulative impacts, and need for increased public engagement. Surfrider is not affiliated with this offshore wind farm proposal, but due to the project’s potential to directly impact nearby coastlines and coastal communities, Surfrider developed this list of common inquiries.
Answers were assembled by Surfrider staff with help from experts on coastal resources and offshore wind energy. If you have additional questions, please contact Matt Gove at mgove@surfrider.org.