US Wind is willing to give millions of dollars to several Delaware towns if they agree to the offshore wind turbines proposed for the Atlantic Ocean. Sounds like a great offer. But wait, they would have to sign legal documents agreeing not to obstruct or delay development of the project.
Some would say, don’t look a gift horse in the mouth, the money received will be a great addition to the town, and all will be free to decide how the money is spent.
But, all that glitters is not gold. In exchange for the money agreed to, people in those areas must give up their freedom of expression. US Wind is asking for silence even before it starts activating its plans.
Trust is an important part of any agreement. When agreeing to commit your signature to a contract, you should have confidence and certainty. My observation is the proposed offshore wind turbines in Ocean City, Md., created changing information. The height of turbines eventually went up to 900 feet. Then, locations came closer to our shore. Soon, the amount of turbines grew to over 100.
As I recently researched other information, I read that electric prices might actually increase in Delaware with the completion of the turbines. It gets complicated, but electric bills in residences could increase up to $680 per year, and additionally, similar increases could be experienced by businesses. More information on this can be found by reading “Inside Energy” through the Caesar Rodney Institute’s Center for Energy and Environment.
Delaware and Maryland are very special to me. So many of us enjoy what both provide. Both states are vacation destinations for many. Their shorelines provide fun, relaxation, fishing, entertainment, restaurants, jobs and so much more. How exciting to see dolphins or, if you are really lucky, a whale. Walking the boards, strolling the beach or taking a boat ride and seeing the beautiful view of our Atlantic Ocean is a memory all share. Perhaps you can go fishing, and maybe when you are at sea, find those who have a fishing boat business. So many of our restaurants actually can put those fresh-caught items on their menus.
We are fortunate to live where multitudes of others flock to spend their time and money. Both states have booming summer seasons. The off-season, which was considered to be the late fall and winter, is now the on season. Over the years, businesses run by locals invested their time and energy to develop what we now have. The success continues today.
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Is what we have worth keeping? Will doing the work needed to complete the offshore turbines enhance safety, the economy and stability for people, the ocean and the marine life?
So, back to the beginning with US Wind. It must be so difficult to have an offer that may help each town that agrees to US Wind’s financial deal. On the other hand, years from now, will having US Wind’s completion of the offshore wind be the desired lasting legacy?
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