IT’S TIME FOR NEW YORK TO LEAD ON OFFSHORE WIND
Homegrown energy for our community, our environment, and our future.
IMPROVED PUBLIC HEALTH
STABLE ENERGY PRICES
UNION JOBS
PROTECTING COASTLINES
HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT
OFFSHORE WIND FACTS
Reduction in Air Pollution
Wind energy production generates electricity without emitting harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. By replacing fossil fuel-based power generation, wind energy helps reduce air pollution and its associated health problems. A study published in the journal Nature Energy found that transitioning to wind energy could prevent approximately 15,000 premature deaths annually in the United States alone (Jacobson et al., 2017).
Lower Respiratory and Cardiovascular Health Risks
The decrease in air pollution due to wind energy has been linked to a reduction in respiratory and cardiovascular health risks. Research published in Environmental Research Letters suggests that the health benefits of wind energy, including reduced mortality from air pollution-related diseases, can lead to significant cost savings in healthcare (Anenberg et al., 2017).
Noise Pollution Reduction
Wind turbines are relatively quiet compared to many other forms of power generation. Reducing noise pollution from power plants and transportation infrastructure can lead to improved mental health outcomes, reduced stress, and better sleep quality for nearby communities (García et al., 2019).
Minimal Water Usage
Unlike conventional power plants, wind turbines do not require large amounts of water for cooling. This helps conserve water resources, which is crucial for public health, especially in regions prone to water scarcity and droughts.
Job Creation and Economic Benefits
The wind energy industry creates jobs in manufacturing, construction, maintenance, and other sectors. Improved economic conditions, including job opportunities and income stability, can indirectly lead to enhanced public health by reducing stress and improving overall well-being (U.S. Department of Energy, 2020).
Reduced Energy Costs
Wind energy can reduce electricity costs for consumers. A report by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) found that wind energy is one of the most cost-effective sources of electricity generation, with consistently declining costs over the past decade (U.S. DOE, 2021).
Increased Tax Revenue
Wind energy projects often result in increased property tax revenue for local communities. This additional revenue can be used to fund public services and infrastructure improvements, reducing the financial burden on taxpayers (National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 2017).
Reduced Infrastructure Costs
Wind farms typically require less infrastructure than traditional power plants. For example, they don’t need fuel supply chains, transportation networks for fuel, or extensive water resources for cooling. These reductions in infrastructure costs can lead to long-term savings for taxpayers, and reduce related risks to the safety of local communities (U.S. DOE, 2020).
Grid Reliability and Resilience
A study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that wind energy can enhance grid resilience by reducing the risk of fuel supply disruptions and extreme weather impacts, ultimately benefiting taxpayers through improved reliability (Mills et al., 2016).
Learn More
NYLCVEF, Climate Jobs NY, and Citizens Campaign for the Environment have hosted several events to educate policymakers, community members, and other stakeholders on the benefits of offshore wind. Click the links below to watch:
