Article published February 15, 2015
Offshore wind energy may soon be coming to the Carolinas. After some public debate, the first leases are expected to begin as early as 2016. However, it could take nearly a decade before turbines are built. Three areas have been designated for potential leases: 120,000 acres in the Outer Banks and 130,000 acres and 52,000 acres south of Wilmington and east of Myrtle Beach. No offshore wind turbines have been built in the United States.
Many local residents worry the offshore wind turbines will negatively affect tourism. They want to know what the financial benefit is to them and wonder how boats and airplanes will be able to see the wind turbines at night. In response to concern by the local community, the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management issued a report stating wind development would not have a significant environmental impact.
After leases are rewarded, continued environmental studies and reviews or turbine construction plans will take place. And a representative from Environmental North Carolina notes that developing wind energy is better than fossil fuels, which contribute to rising sea levels.
