Ocean City wind farm project sparks debate on Eastern Shore

Residents of Ocean City are facing a potential transformation of their scenic beachfront as plans for a new offshore wind farm by U.S. Wind move forward. Renderings submitted to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management depict how the horizon might appear on clear days once the project is complete. The proposal has ignited a heated debate among community members, leading to the formation of the Stop Offshore Wind movement.

Sonny Gwin, a waterman with four decades of experience fishing these waters, voiced strong concerns about the environmental impact. "They're not good for the environment, and if they want to save the environment because of climate change, why would you go destroy an environment to try to save something?" Gwin questioned. He warned that the construction and operation of the wind farm could harm marine life, including blue crabs and small fish essential to the local ecosystem.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's Final Environmental Impact Statement highlighted potential disruptions to wildlife, water and air quality, and adverse effects on Ocean City’s recreation and tourism industries. Despite these concerns, some residents see the project differently. Kathy Phillips stressed the importance of addressing climate change, supporting the wind farm as a necessary step. "We are one of the regions most susceptible to sea level rise and storm inundation," she explained. "Getting away from higher carbon emissions is crucial." Phillips also dismissed fears that the turbines would negatively affect property values or rental markets, suggesting that opposition has been exaggerated by a vocal, well-funded minority.

Among critics is Senator Mary Beth Carozza, who emphasized the limited oceanfront land in Maryland. "We don't want to be known for the beach town where you can see the turbines," she remarked. Concerns also extend to the fishing industry; Carozza expressed doubts about job creation, questioning whether the project might actually lead to job losses in fishing and tourism sectors. Conversely, Bill Chambers of the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce and a supporter of offshore wind projects sees the initiative as a means to create new jobs and diversify Maryland's energy sources, especially amid rising energy costs. Chambers is part of the Lower Shore Wind Alliance, advocating for the benefits of offshore wind development.

While the project has received final approval for construction and operation plans, opposition persists. Senator Carozza is hopeful that a federal administration change could halt the project, citing similar efforts in other states. "If a decision could be made to halt New York's offshore wind energy project, then we want the same halt to Maryland's offshore energy project," she stated.

U.S. Wind aims to develop multiple offshore farms with the goal of generating 8.5 gigawatts of electricity for Maryland. The company declined an interview request but provided contacts supporting the project. As the debate continues, residents and officials grapple with balancing economic, environmental, and aesthetic considerations in shaping the future of Ocean City’s coastline.