Offshore Wind Alliance Members Statements on Justice Department Action Against US Wind
In response to the Department of Justice's action last week to voluntarily remand and vacate its approval of the Construction and Operations Plan for US Wind’s Maryland Offshore Wind Project, members of the Offshore Wind Alliance issued the following statements:
“Offshore wind holds the potential to power Maryland homes and businesses with lower emissions and lower fuel costs, at a time when electricity demand and costs are rising. Investments in clean energy unlock the potential for cleaner air and healthier communities as we work to meet rising demand with affordable options. It is a waste of time and taxpayer money to block projects that have already undergone years of rigorous review.” —Rebecca Rehr, Climate Policy and Justice Director, Maryland LCV
“The unlawful actions by the Trump administration against fully permitted offshore wind projects up and down the East Coast represent one of the largest, economically devastating assaults on U.S. workers, businesses, and energy in decades. Revoking a permit on an approved project after years of thorough agency review will raise electricity prices for families, jeopardize private investment, delay economic growth, and weaken our power grid.” —Liz Burdock, CEO, Oceantic Network
“The Maryland offshore wind project will provide good jobs, lower our energy bills, and help clean our air. By trying to derail this project, the Trump administration is withholding these benefits from Maryland families and residents, effectively leaving the solution to our energy and economic needs stranded in the water. The Atlantic coast has a wealth of wind waiting to be harnessed. We will continue to speak out and demand better for our state, championing clean, homegrown energy that prioritizes people over polluters.” —Josh Tulkin, Director, Maryland Sierra Club
“The people of Maryland are relying on this project to create good, union jobs and provide much-needed power as electricity demand skyrockets and utility costs squeeze household budgets. We cannot afford to lose the reliable energy and jobs that this project will bring. Ironworkers and other union members across Maryland have spent years training for the specialized offshore wind industry in preparation for the anticipated jobs in this sector. Now, we are facing an uncertain future, not knowing where the next job will be or if all of our hard work was worth it.”—Kendall Martin, President, Ironworkers District Council of the Mid-Atlantic States
The Offshore Wind Alliance is a nonpartisan community movement that aims to bring the benefits of offshore wind and economic opportunity to the mid-Atlantic region. The Alliance works to stop misinformation about offshore wind and share the facts. Friday’s decision runs counter to the goals of the Alliance, and threatens the region’s efforts to provide clean, reliable, affordable energy.