Nantucket group challenges wind farms' environmental permits

An opposition group from Nantucket is challenging two planned offshore wind farms located 24 miles southwest of the island. The group, named ACK For Whales, has filed a petition with the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They want the EPA to review permits related to the Clean Air Act for the New England Wind 1 and 2 projects. The group claims the original permits did not consider the potential emissions from possible blade failures and repairs. They argue that this could lead to temporary increases in pollution. They also believe that grouping the New England Wind projects with Vineyard Wind may hide local pollution spikes and that the impact from vessel emissions and pile driving was not adequately studied. This opposition comes as the political climate around offshore wind energy shifts. The Biden administration promoted offshore wind as part of its energy plans, while the Trump administration took a more critical stance. ACK For Whales member Amy DiSibio emphasized that their concerns are valid regardless of the administration. They are seeking a more thorough review of the projects. Other groups opposing offshore wind are active in different regions. For instance, in New Jersey, a similar group successfully prompted a review of a permit for another wind project, leading to its revocation by a court. Some advocates, like Kate Sinding Daly from the Conservation Law Foundation, questioned the motivations behind ACK For Whales' recent challenges, suggesting they may align more with political sentiments than environmental concerns. Despite opposition, New England Wind has received the necessary approvals to start construction, with plans for up to 129 turbines. Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 and run through 2029.