USA: 53 Pct Block Island Residents Pro Offshore Wind Farm

The Block Island Residents Association (BIRA) sent the results of a poll regarding the Block Island Wind Farm to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which show that 53% of the interviewed people are in favour of the project and 38% are opposed to it, writes The Block Island Times.

The results of the public opinion on Deepwater Wind’s offshore wind project came out at the end of 2012, indicating a decrease in opposition when compared with the poll undertaken two years ago, which showed that 50% of people were against it.

When observed from a perspective of different groups of residents, different viewpoints occur on the project, BIRA’s President William Penn reported to the Corps’ project manager for the Block Island Wind Farm, Michael Elliott, the news site writes.

Accordingly, seasonal residents, who make 70% of the Island’s households, showed support by 58% and opposition by 38%. Retirees, who make up 16 %  of the respondents, voted 50% in favour of and 50% against the project. Finally, year-round residents and Island businesses opposed the project by only 8%, while 69% of them supported the wind farm.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District announced the extension of the public comment period until Feb. 10, 2013 for those who want to submit comments on the Deepwater Wind proposal.

Deepwater Wind Block Island, LLC proposes to construct and maintain the 30 MW Block Island Wind Farm located in Rhode Island state territorial waters.

[mappress]

Offshore WIND Staff, January 11, 2013; Image: dwwind