The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced Aug. 29 the beginning of a public comment period for a Rhode Island wind project.
According to a BOEM news release, the project proposed a wind farm of up to 100 wind turbines approximately 15 nautical miles southeast of Point Judith, Rhode Island. The expected megawatt (MW) capacity range for this project is 704 to 880 MW, enough to power at least 300,000 homes.
“Collaborating with all stakeholders and ocean users throughout the leasing and development process is vital," BOEM Director Amanda Lefton said, according to the news release. "We’re committed to maintaining open and transparent communication with all stakeholders and value public input. BOEM is using the best available science as well as knowledge from ocean users and other stakeholders to avoid and minimize conflict with existing uses and marine life.”
BOEM Director Amanda Lefton.
| BOEM
According to the news release, public meetings will only take place if the COVID-19 community level is “low” according to the CDC. If levels are “medium'' or “high” for the surrounding areas, the meetings will be replaced with virtual meetings. Updates on meeting status will be found on BOEM’s website.
In-person public meetings are scheduled Oct. 4 at 5 p.m., Oct. 5 at 5 p.m. and Oct. 6, at 5 p.m.
A virtual meeting room with information on how to register for the virtual meetings as well as instructions on how to submit comments, were scheduled to be published Sept. 2 on BOEM’s website that can be reached by clicking here.
The virtual meeting room is available through the 45-day comment period. The meeting room will include a copy of the DEIS, fact sheets, posters and pre-recorded presentations.
Virtual public meetings are scheduled Thursday, Sept. 29 at 1 p.m. and Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 5 p.m.
Public comment can be submitted in writing by mail.
The news release states that comments through mail must be sent in an envelope labeled “Revolution Wind COP DEIS” and addressed to Program Manager, Office of Renewable Energy, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, 45600 Woodland Road, Sterling, Virginia, 20166.
Public comment can also be submitted through the regulations.gov web portal by navigating to https://www.regulations.gov/, search for Docket No. BOEM-2022-0045, click on the “Comment” button below the document link, enter your information and comment. Lastly, click “Submit Comment.”
