As New Jersey debates the risk and reward of offshore wind farms, some scientists and engineers warn of flaws and inefficiency of giant wind turbines.
Life expectancy not as long as suggested. Especially when these massive structures are planted out at sea.
From New York Post: New York electric rates are among the highest in the nation, but Gov. Andrew Cuomo is intent on making them higher still, not just by pushing renewable energy but by requiring cozy — possibly illegal — arrangements to benefit labor unions.
“The Cuomo administration appears to have violated state law” by forcing developers of state-subsidized offshore wind-power plants to cut costly deals with construction unions, the Empire Center’s Ken Girardin reported last week.
Under New York law, a project can’t require such an arrangement — known as a project labor agreement, or PLA — unless officials first “determine” that it’s in the state’s best interests.
That’s because such deals force companies to agree to union rules and pay scales and keep non-union shops from bidding, which jacks up the cost of projects.
The unions are thrilled. But guess who’d pick up the extra tab if the arrangement sends costs soaring? That’s right: New Yorkers, through even higher electric bills.
And the added expense would be tacked on to rates already reflecting the cost of wind power — the most expensive form of renewable energy.
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