East Coast wind energy developers looking at the feasibility of offshore wind farms got a boost when the U.S. Department of the Interior ruled that the renewable energy source wouldn’t cause major environmental damage in the waters from New Jersey to Virginia. While any single project would still face environmental review, the decision takes two years off the application and approval process because it eliminates a broader analysis. A previous wind project off the coast of Massachusetts took 10 years from start to approval, an unacceptable length of time. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said the department also is looking for other ways to streamline approval for renewable energy leases. The Interior’s emphasis on speed is welcome in light of the nation’s need for energy independence.
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