A broken wind turbine blade in Massachusetts has triggered safety and cost concerns in the U.S. offshore wind industry, which is already struggling with delays and rising expenses.
A 300-foot-long wind turbine blade failed at Vineyard Wind 1, delaying the $4 billion offshore project.
The failure has added to existing challenges such as cost overruns, safety concerns, and supply chain issues, slowing offshore wind development.
GE Vernova, the turbine's manufacturer, cited a manufacturing error, and other recent failures raise questions about quality and oversight in the offshore wind industry.
Key quote:
"All these small boats could be subject to damage. Everyone wants this green legacy, but at the cost of what?"
— Peter Kaizer, fisherman
Why this matters:
Offshore wind energy is key to meeting climate goals, but failures like this one increase costs and slow progress. These challenges, combined with opposition from fishing communities, may delay the transition to clean energy along the East Coast.
The state was dealt a blow last year when a developer canceled plans for wind farms off its coast. New agreements could reinvigorate the green energy push.
Some Republicans say President Joe Biden's protections for endangered whales are raising gasoline prices. Others blame his offshore wind efforts for killing whales.
Floating wind turbines the size of skyscrapers are being built where there can’t be construction directly on the seafloor. It’s a massive technical challenge.
