Offshore wind is clean, abundant energy that creates good jobs for Marylanders. But a small group of people are telling lies about offshore wind. Get the truth about these manufactured myths.
Whale Tales
Anti-wind activists have been telling some tall tales when it comes to offshore wind turbines and whale deaths. The truth is that whale experts have repeatedly explained that there is no link between offshore wind and whale deaths. Claims tying every beached whale to turbines are not based in science.
FACT
There are no known links between whale deaths and offshore wind activities.
NOAA Fisheries
FACT
Whale deaths predate most offshore wind development in the U.S. Claims tying strandings to surveys are unsupported by the evidence.
US Department of Energy
Tourist Trap
Anti-wind advocates are predicting a doomsday scenario where tourism dries up overnight after the first offshore wind turbine installation. The truth is that people go to the beach to have fun, not spend their days squinting to see if they can spot a turbine. Economic studies conducted after wind turbine installation show one thing: no adverse impacts – and in some cases there is a net benefit to tourism.
FACT
After wind turbines were installed off the coast of Block Island, Rhode Island, there was a 19% increase in Airbnb occupancy from July through August.
University of Rhode Island
FACT
Peer-reviewed studies of municipalities with offshore wind turbines showed increases in nightly reservations and occupancy post-construction.
ScienceDirect
Catch the Truth
Offshore wind turbines create new structures for sea life to feed and inhabit. In many cases, it actually improves the fishing experience— just ask anyone who has cast a line under the Bay Bridge.
FACT
According to a recent study, subsea structures provide new habitats and can have beneficial effects on fisheries.
The Oceanography Society
FACT
Block Island, Rhode Island anglers reported improved fishing after the wind farm was installed. Ecological data also showed higher abundance of fish and other marine life around structures.
ScienceDirect
