SOUTH JERSEY (KYW Newsradio) — With Donald Trump returning to the White House next year, some are wondering what will happen to New Jersey’s offshore wind energy industry. State officials say they hope to get Trump on board with their plans, while those opposed to offshore wind power are celebrating.
It’s a time of uncertainty for offshore wind projects. Those opposed to the construction of turbines off the Jersey Shore are celebrating, as they think this is the beginning of the end. Robin Shaffer, with Protect Our Coast, says Trump has several ways to squash the projects, not only in New Jersey, but nationwide.
“Without the subsidies, the generous subsidies, these projects go away,” said Shaffer. “Also, without the federal permitting, these projects cannot happen.”
Former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin of New York has been selected by the president-elect as prospective Environmental Protection Agency administrator. Shaffer says Zeldin has also expressed concerns about offshore wind power.
New Jersey isn’t giving up the fight just yet. In a statement, the state’s Board of Public Utilities said Gov. Phil Murphy remains committed to offshore wind projects, to create well-paying jobs and combat climate change. State officials say they look forward to speaking with the incoming administration about the benefits of the industry.