Projo Biz Blog

Jim Gordon, developer of the Cape Wind project off Cape Cod, has called a press briefing this afternoon to discuss a federal agency's final report on the environmental impact of the plan to build the nation's first offshore wind farm.

The Minerals Management Service report due out today could provide a major boost for the Cape Wind project, which has sparked a long, bitter fight in the region.

A favorable environmental report could help clear the way for Cape Wind to obtain a federal lease.

Supporters tout the wind farm as a safe, clean renewable energy source. Foes cite safety, environmental and economic risks.

A draft report by the MMS last year found that the plans to build 130 windmills across 25 miles of federal waters in Nantucket Sound would have mostly minor effects on wildlife, ocean navigation, fishing and tourism.

The project has been under review by various state and federal agencies since 2001.

 Tags  Cape Wind Jim Gordon Minerals Management Service

---