(Erie County, NY) – Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) introduced legislation aimed at blocking the development of industrial scale wind farms in the Great Lakes.
“The Great Lakes are a regional resource and economic driver. From providing fresh drinking water to millions of people to allowing for recreational and tourism activities – the health of our lakes is of paramount importance to our region’s long-term prosperity,” Jacobs said. “After spending decades cleaning the lakes of past pollutants, the prospect of large industrial construction to install wind turbines is a threat to our lakes’ health we cannot afford.”
Jacobs’ legislation would deny the ability for developers to receive federal tax credits to build offshore wind farms in the Great Lakes. Due to the massive capital needed for these projects, without federal tax credits, developing these projects would prove difficult.
“Offshore wind development has long been a goal of the out-of-touch politicians in Albany. Despite being from Western New York and supposedly understanding the importance of the lakes here, Governor Hochul’s budget this year allocated an additional $500 million for offshore turbine development,” Jacobs said. “We must reject this effort. I’m proud to lead this legislation to protect the Great Lakes, and I will continue my work to secure additional resources to ensure the long-term health of our lakes.”
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