The Patrick-Murray Administration has asked the federal government to redefine the area being considered for offshore wind energy development, according to a press release.
Such redefinition would remove from further consideration certain areas identified by commercial fishermen, fisheries scientists, and other maritime users as vital to the Commonwealth’s fishing industry,.
The Administration’s request would remove from the federal leasing process approximately half of a 3,000-square mile area in federal waters south of Massachusetts that was originally identified by federal officials for potential wind power development.
“This proposal will enable Massachusetts to lead the country in a burgeoning offshore wind industry, while also protecting our vibrant commercial fishing industry that is so vital to our economy,” Governor Deval Patrick said.
