SC New York News

On March 14, Congressman Nick Langworthy of New York's 23rd district reintroduced the Lakes Before Turbines Act. This legislation aims to prevent developers from using tax credits for constructing wind farms on any of the Great Lakes.

Developers have relied heavily on the Federal investment tax credit to offset the high costs associated with building offshore wind energy facilities. The proposed bill seeks to deter such developments by removing these financial incentives, citing concerns over environmental health and local economic impacts.

In recent years, there has been significant interest in establishing wind energy projects on the Great Lakes. However, communities in the region have expressed strong opposition, arguing that these projects could alter the lakes permanently and threaten both environmental health and local economies.

Congressman Langworthy emphasized the importance of protecting the Great Lakes, which serve as vital sources of recreation and tourism for many communities along their shores. "The success of these local economies is deeply connected to the health of the Lakes," he stated. He further argued against placing wind turbines on lake shorelines due to their cost, unreliability, and potential harm to ecosystems.

Langworthy's statement highlights a broader debate about balancing renewable energy development with environmental preservation and economic considerations in regions like those surrounding the Great Lakes.