U.S. To Push Deal on Huge ‘Cape Wind’ Project In Wake of Latest Challenge by Opponents

U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said on Jan. 4 he would meet with stakeholders on the future of the planned $1-billion Cape Wind wind farm in Nantucket Sound after the National Park Service ruled that its planned site is eligible for listing as a national historic site because of cultural significance to two local Native American tribes. The project, located off the Massachusetts coast, would be the country’s first offshore wind farm. It would involve construction of 130 turbines, each 440 ft high, and other structures. Environmentalists and other opponents claim the project, being developed by Cape Wind Associates LLC, would harm wildlife and scenic views. Proponents say the project would provide enough power for 400,000 homes. “I am hopeful that an agreement among the parties can be reached by March 1,” said Salazar. “If an agreement among the parties cannot be reached, I will be prepared to take the steps necessary to bring the permit process to conclusion.”