First in the Nation Off-Shore Wind Farm To Be Sited off Rehobeth Beach, Delaware

After more than 18 months of hearings, filings, public advocacy, and contract negotiations, the nation’s first offshore wind energy farm appears to be on its way.  Bluewater Wind and Delmarva Power and Light (DPL) reached a deal on a scaled back version of the wind farm and received assurances of a favorable treatment for DPL’s renewable energy credits to be obtained through the long term power purchase contract.  The deal, struck in the final days of the Delaware General Assembly’s legislative session, cleared the path for legislation directing agency action under H.B. 6 to approve the power purchase agreement, breaking an impasse over DPL’s reluctance to commit to purchasing the full output of the wind farm, among other objections.  As a result, the previously accepted size contemplated in the plan for which negotiations were compelled by the Public Service Commission and other state agencies has been reduced to 70 wind turbines.  This remains a major victory for the environment and places Delaware in the vanguard of a renewable energy industry which will be crucial as the nation steps up to address global warming.  The Center contributed its voice and perspective in filings, public testimony, and legal analysis to help the environmental community achieve its goal.