Opposition to offshore wind energy projects in New Jersey is gaining momentum, with legal and political challenges threatening the industry's development. Three resident groups have recently filed a lawsuit against the state, contesting the approval of the Ocean Wind I project. The lawsuit alleges that the project violates coastal management rules and will have detrimental effects on the marine environment and local economy.

Simultaneously, the Congressional Accountability Office has agreed to investigate the broader impacts of offshore wind development, a move long sought by project opponents. This investigation will examine the environmental, economic, and other potential consequences of offshore wind projects.

The plaintiffs in the lawsuit, represented by attorney Bruce Afran, argue that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has acknowledged the potential negative impacts of wind turbines, including habitat destruction, seafloor compression, damage to marine communities, disruption of migration corridors for endangered marine mammals, and harm to the commercial fishing industry and beach tourism. They contend that the state's approval of the Ocean Wind I project contradicts its own recognition of these potential harms.

Former DEP head Jeanne Fox, however, views the lawsuit as a delay tactic. She emphasizes the extensive environmental studies already conducted on offshore wind projects and highlights the urgent need to address the climate crisis, for which offshore wind energy offers a solution by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The Ocean Wind I project, planned to be situated approximately 15 miles off the coast of Ocean City and Atlantic City, involves the construction of 98 wind turbines. It is the first of three approved offshore wind projects in New Jersey, with more anticipated in the future.

The lawsuit cites specific sections of the DEP's April decision on Ocean Wind I, which acknowledge potential adverse effects on the surf clam industry, alterations to the ocean floor, and the impact on whale migration routes. It also references a finding by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management regarding potential major impacts on commercial and recreational fisheries.

Ocean Wind I spokesperson Liz Thomas points to the extensive regulatory scrutiny the project has undergone over 12 years, involving multiple federal and state agencies, as well as numerous consulting parties.

The legal challenge coincides with growing political opposition. Lawmakers in Atlantic County are considering a measure supporting a moratorium on offshore wind preparation work pending an investigation into recent whale deaths along the East Coast, although several scientific agencies have found no link between the deaths and offshore wind activities. Cape May County has also taken action by hiring additional law firms to assist in their fight against offshore wind projects.