Wind Power Economics
Economics
What is the relationship between offshore wind and electricity rates?
An offshore wind park will help to stabilize the price of electricity by using an energy source that is not subject to the fluctuation of market prices of fossil fuel, such as coal or natural gas. Bluewater Wind wants Delaware consumers to benefit from this price stability and we will do this by offering to sell the electricity generated at our wind park at a pre-determined price for a long-term period (25 years). Wind generated electricity provides Delaware consumers with far greater price stability than is currently available. Furthermore, wind energy is not subject to the prospect of future additional costs of complying with new environmental regulations. These costs, including a carbon tax, are ones that a fossil fuel generator will have to pass on to consumers, and are considered increasingly likely -and increasingly expensive- as we continue to grapple with the problem of global warming.
What is the relationship between an offshore wind park and tourism at Delaware’s beaches?
An offshore wind park is completely compatible with tourism at Delaware’s beaches. This conclusion is supported by years of experience in Europe, where offshore wind turbines are welcomed by tourists. Indeed, there are many examples of wind parks actually boosting tourism.
In Denmark, wind power wind parks off the shores of two major destinations - the capital city of Copenhagen and the beach resort of Blavandshuk - are popular tourist attractions. Copenhagen organizes boat tours for tourists interested in getting a closer look at the majestic turbines in motion.
Here at home, where onshore wind parks predominate, the same holds true. Tucker County West Virginia is creating an overlook area for motorists in response to demand for viewing access, working with the project owner to create an educational kiosk. Palm Springs, California tourism officials organize bus tours to local wind parks.
