The fate of offshore wind development in Delaware could be decided in just a few days. On Tuesday, December 17, the Sussex County Council will hold a crucial vote on whether or not to allow the conditional use of land near the Indian River Power Plant for an electric substation. This substation would be essential for connecting the power generated by the offshore wind turbines of US Wind—a foreign-owned company—to the grid. If the Council votes against the conditional use, it could effectively block this project from progressing off the coast of Delaware.
The stakes are high, not only for the wind project but also for the future of energy development and environmental initiatives in Delaware. The specific vote on December 17 concerns the approval of a site near the Indian River Power Plant to serve as the landing point for the offshore wind power cables, ultimately bringing electricity from US Wind’s turbines onto Delaware soil. Without access to this land, the offshore wind project cannot proceed in Delaware. Although the wind farm itself is based in Maryland, it has the potential to impact Delaware’s coastal environment and the lives of its residents.
The issue at hand is whether or not this project benefits Delaware residents. According to Delaware law, for a conditional use to be granted, it must provide a clear benefit to the people of the state. Sussex County’s definition of a conditional use stresses that the use must promote the "health, safety, morals, convenience, order, prosperity, and welfare" of the people in the area, both now and in the future. However, many argue that the offshore wind project does not meet these criteria.
In fact, opponents of the project point out that the project primarily benefits Maryland by providing them with renewable energy, and a foreign-owned company stands to profit from the venture. Meanwhile, Delaware residents are left with few tangible benefits. There is no guarantee that this project will lead to lower energy costs for Delawareans, nor is there any direct contribution to the state's economy. Instead, critics argue that the offshore wind farm could create more harm than good, disrupting Delaware’s pristine beaches and natural habitats while serving the interests of other states and private corporations.
What Can We Do?
While the official public comment period has ended, there are still ways for Delaware residents to make their voices heard before the final vote on December 17. If you want to express your opposition to the offshore wind project and urge the County Council to vote "no" on granting conditional use for the substation, here are a few actions you can take:
Email Sussex County Council Members
Although the public comment portion is closed, you can still reach out to the five Sussex County Council members directly. Let them know how you feel about the potential impact of offshore wind on Delaware's coastline and why you believe the conditional use should be denied. You can find a sample email on the 38thdrcp.com website, and contact information for all Council members here.
Attend the Sussex County Meeting
Even if public comments will not be allowed at the meeting, your presence at the Sussex County Council meeting on Tuesday, December 17, at 9:00 AM in Georgetown, Delaware, will send a powerful message. Standing together with like-minded individuals to show your opposition to this project can have a significant impact on the Council's final decision. The meeting will be held at 2 the Circle, Georgetown, DE.
Write Letters to the Editor
Another effective way to voice your opinion is by writing letters to the editor of local newspapers. This not only allows you to express your concerns but also helps to raise awareness within the community. The 38thdrcp.com website provides tips and links to local publications where you can submit your letters.
The Future of Delaware's Coastline
This vote is more than just a decision about offshore wind power; it’s a decision about how Delaware values its coastline, its economy, and its people. While renewable energy is undoubtedly important, it’s crucial that the benefits of such projects are felt by the communities hosting them. As residents of Delaware, we must ensure that our voices are heard and that our state’s interests are prioritized.
The upcoming vote on December 17 is a pivotal moment in shaping Delaware's future. Let’s show the Sussex County Council that we care about our coast, our communities, and the future of our state.
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