Offshore Wind Power Possibly Coming to South Carolina
The winds of change may be blowing into South Carolina. Some experts are touting wind power as the new tool for fuel.
With links being made between pollution and climate change, offshore wind energy may be a possible “green” way for South Carolina to produce power and reduce emissions.
“You’re taking tons and tons of hydrocarbons out of the atmosphere each year,” explained Nick Longfield, the managing director for Ocean Marine Services.
Longfield, who usually works around the United Kingdom, was invited by Santee Cooper, Clemson University Restoration Institute and others to do a presentation on wind potential and development of South Carolina coasts.
“If the farm they are considering goes ahead here, you’ve got the potential probably to feed 100,000 to 120,000 homes on a renewable energy source that is specifically wind,” said Longfield.
Longfield also says the aquatic ecosystems can benefit from the installation of the oceanic wind turbines.
“You are creating a habitat for things to flourish on out at sea,” he said.
Besides producing more energy for the state and having positive environmental impacts, offshore wind farms may also have benefits that help boost the economy.
“The port could potentially serve this business as they bring in equipment. Staging prior to construction may require a waterfront resource and it could potentially have a benefit to our port communities in South Carolina,” said Byron Miller with the State Ports Authority.
“It would not only benefit my business but many, many businesses. This will be a huge boom, especially in difficult times in the local economy. You’re talking tens of millions of dollars being infused into the local businesses,” said Robert New, President with Charleston Port Services Co.
With no offshore wind farms currently in the United States, South Carolina could be on the forefront of change.
“The people who are in now and start this now are going to be the country’s experts. They’re going to be the ones that will be able to help the rest of the country through this,” said Longfield.
Wind Power: A promising option for the Palmetto State to produce power in an environmentally friendly way.
Via WCIV
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