NJ offshore wind project gets environmental permits

Fishermen’s Energy reports that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (“NJ DEP”) has issued the major environmental permits to build its demonstration-scale six turbine Fishermen’s Atlantic City Windfarm to be located in New Jersey State waters off the coast of Atlantic City.

NJ DEP issued the project’s CAFRA Individual Permit, Waterfront Development Permit and Water Quality Certificate after technical, legal, and staff review of the project application and after a public notice and comment period which garnered only positive support from a variety of stakeholders.

“The development of offshore wind projects off New Jersey’s coast is a priority for the Christie Administration,” said New Jersey DEP Commissioner Bob Martin. “The Governor is committed to making the State a leader in this new industry, with its environmental and economic benefits. This is a great first step forward in making this a reality for New Jersey.”

“Today’s announcement puts New Jersey one step closer to being America’s leader on offshore wind” said Matt Elliott, Global Warming and Clean Energy Advocate, Environment New Jersey. “Offshore wind is a safe reliable way to generate electricity without creating a drop of pollution. We congratulate Fishermen’s Energy on this exciting news. With all the energy crises facing our nation and our world, we need projects like this more than ever. It’s refreshing to have some good energy news for a change.” Elliott remarked.

“Fishermen’s Energy’s demonstration project off Atlantic City will be the catalyst needed to jump-start the offshore wind industry in New Jersey and sends the right signals to manufacturers that New Jersey is open for business.” said Daniel Cohen President of Fishermen’ Energy.

“In about four years, this project will be followed by a utility scale project about 12 miles offshore in federal waters. We must begin now with the State Water’s Project, to build the confidence of the public, the environmental community and financiers, to make larger utility scale projects a reality. There are no operating offshore wind farms in America yet; this can be a first for New Jersey and the country.” Cohen continued.

“This is a ground-breaking project and the NJ DEP applied a rigorous review to the project and its regulatory context” said Mike Madia, COO of Fishermen’s Energy. “Offshore wind has the potential to provide at least 20% of the electricity demands of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. Offshore wind is already contributing clean energy to Europe and we look forward to participating in a new industry for New Jersey and creating green jobs. This project will result in over 200 construction jobs and 15-20 operations, maintenance and asset management related positions, while also contributing to the local economy by creating an iconic major tourist attraction.

Fishermen’s Energy is a developer of offshore wind energy projects, founded by New Jersey commercial fishermen to respond to the public’s need to develop the ocean for renewable wind energy.

April 7, 2011