In August 2010, Gov. Chris Christie signed the Offshore Wind Development Act and promised a commitment to offshore wind development in New Jersey. Seven years later, proponents of wind energy say the time for stalling is over.
“For too many years, mid-August has become a bittersweet anniversary for New Jersey,” said Doug O’Malley, director of Environment New Jersey. “That time is about to end.”
On Wednesday, before the backdrop of several large wind turbines that power the Atlantic County Utilities Authority’s wastewater treatment facility, the environmental coalition Jersey Renews held a panel conference to discuss advancing offshore wind projects in New Jersey.
The panel included voices from across all spectrums — faith leaders, environmental groups, health care and industrial groups — discussing the impacts of climate change, the future of offshore wind development in New Jersey and its economic impact.
“The science is clear. Climate change is real. Climate change is happening now, and we need to act now,” said Dan Fatton, executive director of Work Environment Council.
