BANGOR DAILY NEWS • November 11, 2024
Donald Trump, who was elected president on Nov. 5, has pledged to end offshore wind “on day one.” Industry experts believe he could slow, but not stop, the growth of renewable energy in the U.S. Last month’s lease auction, held just before the election, lends credence to this assessment. Eight offshore wind leases were sold. The fact that companies, including Central Maine Power owner Avangrid, purchased leases to install offshore wind turbines is an endorsement of the potential for this relatively new form of electricity generation. More data needs to be collected about the potential impact of offshore wind on marine species, including endangered right whales, and on commercial lobster fishing. But, last month’s federal lease auction shows there is serious interest — despite threats to hamper the industry from the next president — in developing offshore wind to help meet growing demand for renewable energy.