U.S. first offshore wind farm gets government approval

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar has approved the U.S.'s first offshore wind farm off the coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts. Called Cape Wind, the project will supply an average of 183MW or up to three-quarters of the electricity needs for Cape Cod and the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. The 130 wind turbines will cover 24 square miles and will be located about five miles from shore.
Under regulatory review for over nine years, opponents claim that the $1 billion project will spoil Cape Cod's sea views. It is opposed by various environmental groups and politicians including newly elected Republican Senator Scott Brown of Massachusetts. The late Senator Edward Kennedy was one of the projects biggest opponents. (NECN) - Native American tribes, commercial fishermen, environmental groups and others will file suit to stop wind project. Tying up the decision in court could significantly delay the start of production.
Supporters of offshore wind farms have been waiting for this decision for a long time. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimates that about 90,000MW of electricity could be harnessed from offshore winds.
Isn’t it funny that the majority of people favor these projects as long as it’s -- Not in my backyard.