Life Is Lovely Now That Block Islanders Have Offshore Wind Power - CleanTechnica

The article highlights the transformative impact of the Block Island Offshore Wind Project (BIOWP) on Block Island, Rhode Island. Previously reliant on five noisy, polluting diesel generators that caused inconsistent and expensive electricity, the island now benefits from clean, reliable offshore wind power. The BIOWP connects the island to the mainland power grid via a $120 million undersea cable, which also provides the first reliable broadband internet service to the island. This connection has significantly improved residents' quality of life, stabilized energy costs to less than a third of previous levels, and enhanced internet access critical for education and tourism. Block Islanders, who value their natural environment with nearly half the island protected from development, have embraced offshore wind as a key part of their conservation efforts and climate change mitigation. The offshore turbines, located about 5 km from shore within state waters, have not only reduced pollution and noise but also contributed positively to the marine ecosystem by creating artificial reefs that support productive fishing. The community’s support for expanding the offshore