Published in the Press of Atlantic City
Caren Fitzpatrick, former Atlantic County Commissioner
April 27, 2024
Dear Editor,
I am writing in response to a recent opinion article that was published in the Press of Atlantic City asking for a halt to offshore wind projects.
New Jersey is primed to lead the nation in finding clean energy solutions to the climate crisis. Investing in offshore wind will protect our Shore communities from rising sea levels and flooding while creating good-paying union jobs and reducing our reliance on dirty fossil fuels that pollute our air and cause asthma and heart disease.
Governor Murphy’s administration is committed to developing offshore wind in a responsible way. That’s why state agencies, like the Board of Public Utilities, have held numerous hearings that have examined each proposal to ensure it meets standards for environmental safety while protecting consumers. These reviews are in addition to strict federal oversight.
The public has had ample opportunity to weigh in on the Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind project since it was first proposed in 2018. Regulators are continuing to monitor the project as it moves through the development process.
Though some have attempted to tie up development in the courts, towns do not have standing to challenge these types of projects. Rather than throw up additional barriers, we should have confidence in the regulatory process and prepare to welcome Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind as a critical step to building a clean energy future that will create union jobs and improve public health.
Sincerely,
Caren Fitzpatrick, former Atlantic County Commissioner