WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Bill Delahunt today unveiled a proposal for an Ocean Energy Research and Development Zone in state waters to capitalize on the growing interest among local communities and companies to develop offshore renewable energy.   

"Our coastal waters are owned by the American people and they certainly deserve the highest degree of protection." Delahunt said.  "However, I do believe it is possible to work with private companies in developing ocean energy resources if we involve local communities, fishermen, mariners and others in the decision making process."

Delahunt’s proposal, which was outlined in a letter to State legislators, comes in the aftermath of last week’s meeting with Energy Secretary Bodman.  During one exchange, Delahunt proposed a series of ocean energy research and development sites or "test sites" in federal waters.  In recent months, Delahunt has been contacted by numerous companies expressing interest in offshore energy development as government agencies establish a defined regulatory process.  A long-term ocean management plan for state waters is pending before the State legislature, while the Minerals Management Service develops guidelines and policies for offshore renewable energy in federal waters.

In the meantime, Delahunt has proposed that Massachusetts follow the example of New Jersey and establish its own near shore "test site" by inviting local communities to submit proposals.

Excerpts from the letter follow:

It makes sense for the Commonwealth to consider establishing its own renewable energy research and development site for state waters and research partnerships between companies and local universities, such as the University of Massachusetts. This would be similar to a proposal offered by Governor John Corzine for a wind energy test site off the coast of New Jersey.  New Jersey officials recently lifted a moratorium on offshore wind farms and are organizing a blue ribbon panel of scientists and government experts to identify an offshore wind "test site" in state waters of up to 50 wind turbines.

For Massachusetts, the establishment of its own "Ocean Energy Research and Demonstration site" would enable companies to undertake smaller scale projects in state waters, provide for the ongoing monitoring and assessment process of these projects while at the same time provide employment opportunities for the people of Massachusetts.  As a way to invite local support and community involvement, the Commonwealth could accept nominations for demonstration sites from coastal communities and employ a process that is transparent and invites healthy competition. 

Representatives of several companies have already expressed to me a strong interest in developing much smaller scale offshore wind farm "demonstration" projects off the coast of Massachusetts. 

Since our waters are owned by the people of the Commonwealth, we ought to involve our citizens and coastal communities in the site designation process. We have learned that coastal energy projects, especially those that involve substantial public subsidies and incentives, will only succeed if they are based on community involvement and support.

Delahunt’s proposal, if accepted, would establish the first-in-the-nation offshore research and development zone of its kind.  It could serve as a blueprint for other states. Rep. Delahunt served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1973 to 1975. 

Note: the full text of the letter is available from Delahunt’s office.
 

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