Offshore Wind! Yes, its real!

by: ClimateJess

Wed Feb 04, 2009 at 11:11:32 AM EST

After two years of study, a group of scientists and energy experts has concluded that building a wind farm off Virginia Beach is feasible, would cost about $1 billion and could spur more than 1,000 "green" jobs over three years.

The most viable project, the group said, would consist of 196 turbines, each 300 feet tall, converting heavy offshore winds into electricity in waters roughly east of Back Bay.

The envisioned farm, which private energy interests would construct, would not interfere with tourism, fishing or military training - the Navy even could become a partner, the study said.

This report comes out on the heels of several other important disclosures on wind.  First, disappointing realization that Virginia is one of only a handful of states with no major wind installations. Temper that however with our tremendous smart grid funding opportunities, which make this more feasible.  
And the news that wind now employs more people than coal!!  

Despite state funding issues, this is the time for us to lead in wind!  Lets make jobs, secure our national independence, and protect our environment...all at the same time.

More on the report after the jump.