Clean wind energy

In response to Newt Gingrich's recent column, "Drill offshore for American energy, South Carolina jobs," I would like to provide a counterpoint in support of clean offshore wind energy that offers South Carolina more money, more jobs, and more safety than offshore drilling.

South Carolina is uniquely positioned to be a national leader in offshore wind energy because of its favorable wind conditions, gently sloping coast, outstanding port facilities to support increased commerce, and a diverse industrial base to support manufacturing, transportation, and installation of wind turbines. With these combined factors, the climate is right for South Carolina to cash in on wind energy.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, wind development off of South Carolina's coast could feasibly produce 20,000 jobs by 2030. These jobs are long-term since oil and natural gas will eventually run out, but wind will not.

According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, the BP oil disaster last year is costing tens of billions of public and private dollars, and has wreaked havoc upon numerous coastal industries. A similar accident here would jeopardize our tourism and seafood industries as well as compromise the beauty and integrity of the unique Lowcountry landscape and wildlife that we love. Why set ourselves up for such a catastrophe when a clean alternative is so readily available?

Since offshore wind development is in its infancy in the United States, the pioneer communities that choose to install wind farms early on will establish themselves as industry leaders and will be set up to continue to profit from their infrastructure and expertise.

As offshore wind markets open up along the East Coast and in Europe, our ports and industrial hubs will be strategically positioned to serve their needs.

Please visit www.cleanenergy.org for more information.

Chris Carnevale
Coastal Climate and
Energy Coordinator
Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
Savannah Highway
Charleston