The first US offshore wind farm for the Massachusetts coast achieved a key permitting milestone on Tuesday, with the launch of the long awaited federal environmental study that considers the project’s impacts on fisheries and navigation.
According to Reuters, the document’s launch marks a step forward for the Vineyard Wind project, which has experienced delays over concerns that its wind turbines will hurt commercial fishing.
It is reported that the offshore project is expected to generate enough power for more than 400,000 homes in Massachusetts. The lease area is located 15 miles off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard.
In an emailed statement sent to Reuters, Vineyard Wind stated that “We’re pleased that BOEM has published the (supplemental Environmental Impact Statement) and look forward to engaging with the agency and the many different stakeholders as we continue to make our way through this important public process.”
Furthermore, BOEM will receive public comments on the draft environmental review for 45 days before finalizing what is known as the Environmental Impact Statement, the last major milestone before project approval.
