Collins opposes off-shore wind turbine proposal, citing interference with radar
Press Release, Congressman Chris Collins
GRAND ISLAND – After meeting with leadership of the area’s Customs Border Protection (CBP), Congressman Chris Collins (R-Clarence) declared his opposition to the Lake Erie Off-Shore Wind Project.
During a briefing and tour at CBP headquarters, Collins learned that the project could interfere with the CBP radar system used to detect vessels crossing the U.S. border from Canada.
The Off-Shore Wind Project is a part of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s mandate to produce 9,000 megawatts of renewable energy. In the proposed plan, Diamond Wind, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi, would place wind turbines several miles off shore Lake Erie going from the Town of Evans to the Pennsylvania line.
“Here is another example of Governor Cuomo putting his agenda before the safety of the people who live in Western New York,” said Congressman Collins. “Customs Border Protection uses this radar system to keep hard to spot foreign entities out of the U.S. and protecting our community. I cannot allow my constituents to be exposed to this dangerous risk.”
Collins indicated that he would introduce federal legislation that will prohibit these turbines from interfering with the nation’s border security.
“Unfortunately, many see projects like this as easy answers to sustainable renewable energy without looking at the real costs,” added Collins. “In this case, the costs are too great when considering keeping our lakeshore border secure.”
The wind project is currently still in the planning phase and there has not been a formal application submitted with the State. However, with Governor Cuomo’s aggressive “New Green Deal” agenda, this project can begin moving forward. Collins joins Erie County officials, Town of Evans officials and local residents who oppose the project.
