UPDATE: The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council heard public comment Tuesday night but took no vote on the project. Council members want to hear more public input before they deliberate on the proposal. The CRMC’s next meeting is scheduled for May 9.
In order for Revolution Wind to get federal approval, CRMC first needs to determine the plan is consistent with the state’s coastal management policies.
Revolution Wind is a joint venture of the Danish power developer Ørsted and New England energy provider Eversource. The 704-megawatt offshore wind farm would be in federal waters off the coast of Rhode Island and provide power to Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Revolution Wind reached an agreement with CRMC to reduce its number of potential turbine foundation positions from 100 to 79, with 65 to be installed. When possible, Revolution Wind will site cables, and turbine and substation foundations to limit the impact on coastal resources.
The company will also be responsible for a fisheries research and monitoring plan. CRMC says development of the project will likely have a negative impact on the fishing industry.
The council’s professional staff is recommending that CRMC’s politically-appointed members sign off on the project.
Alex Nunes can be reached at anunes@thepublicsradio.org
Editor’s note: This story was originally published before the CRMC’s meeting on Tuesday, April 25, and has since been updated to reflect the council’s plan to meet again.
