There are at least five wind farm proposals for the state waters of Louisiana, which is quickly becoming a national leader for near-shore wind energy development - within 3-mile state waters.
“This is all kind of new, but Louisiana is one of the only states making it an option for developing in state waters,” said Jenny Netherton, a program manager for the Southeastern Wind Coalition.
The global renewable energy firm Vestas has begun negotiations with the state for potential offshore wind farms near the coasts of Cameron and St. Mary parishes, according to the state Department of Natural Resources.
The Danish company joins Mitsubishi-owned Diamond Offshore Wind and Kontiki Winds of Norway in offering proposals in recent weeks in Louisiana waters.
Vestas, which bills itself as a global leader in wind development, is operating under the name of Cajun Wind but did not respond to requests for information about its proposal.
The company has developed several offshore wind projects in Europe, but its U.S. focus has been on turbine manufacturing. It has supplied two offshore turbines for East Coast project.
Much of the recent growth in the American offshore wind industry has been in federal waters, where winds are greater.
But Louisiana has attracted attention with a speedier approval process and support from Gov. John Bel Edwards with 0little opposition from residents or industries.
While other states have large coastal populations that may object to wind turbines cluttering their ocean views, “in Louisiana, we already see oil platforms from our coast,” Netherton said.
Bidding on the Gulf’s first federal offshore lease areas is expected to begin this summer or early fall, but processes likely won’t allow construction until 2030.
That's pointed some development interest at Louisiana, which has laid out a welcome mat for near-shore wind farms. (NOLA.com 07/02/23) Danish firm proposes fifth wind farm in Louisiana waters | Environment | nola.com
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