Wind energy's promise, offshore

In November 2001, Cape Wind Associates, a Boston-based energy development firm, began the permitting application process with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to build the first offshore wind farm in the United States. The historical context and significance of the application, and of its continuing review process, is profound. On a global level looms ever-increasing evidence and recognition of the impacts of fossil fuel use and of resulting climate change. There is, correspondingly, increased urgency to develop renewable energy sources. And the world's demand for energy, especially in developing countries, continues to soar. Unlike the United States, Europe's response to the threat of global climate change has been to ratify the international Kyoto treaty on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To achieve its targets under Kyoto, Europe has turned primarily to wind energy.