Offshore Wind Turbines - Judy Patrick

Our recent focus on the Great Lakes led to a discussion on offshore wind turbines as a means of providing alternative energy.

Alternative energy means anything other than deriving energy using fossil fuel combustion. Ninety percent of our current energy usage comes from fossil fuels with possibly 70 years left with that resource. It is evident, then, that there is a clear need to invest in alternative energy sources.

So what are the advantages of offshore wind? There are none on a large scale. However, wind energy in general can supply supplemental power that can be fed into the power grid and sold to consumers. Wind energy is emissions free.

Intense wind is needed and greater sources of wind can be found on water.
A disadvantage of wind is that it is a highly variable source of energy with low efficiency. (20-30%). Getting the wind power to the grid is a major factor and challenge. The grid must have the capacity to receive the wind energy.
The grid must also be flexible to respond to changes in the rise and fall of demand. An example of problems in the grid occurred in Michigan several summers ago when we experienced serious “black-outs.”

Bird and bat mortality is a serious concern particularly if offshore wind turbines are placed in migratory paths. This also applies to butterflies and dragonflies. Generally, environmental groups support the move to renewable energy. However, they caution that much study is needed on how offshore wind turbines would affect wildlife and the environment and how to regulate them.

There has been some recent political activity in Michigan related to offshore wind energy. Bills were introduced this year by Senator Patricia Berkholz of Saugatuck and Representative Geoff Hansen of Hart. Birkholz”s legislation would mandate the Michigan Public Service Commission develop rules and procedures for issuing permits and for site selection. Hansen’s Bill would set up a public notice and review process for offshore wind farm proposals, including hearings at which citizens could voice their opinions. In May, Representative Tim Bledsoe of Grosse Pointe held a community forum about the proposed Canadian wind turbines on Lake St. Clair.