Ocean City Threatens Legal Action Against BOEM Over Wind Project

Ocean City, a popular resort town in Maryland, has announced plans to sue the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) if it approves US Wind’s proposed offshore wind project.

During a city council meeting, Mayor Rick Meehan reiterated the town's opposition to the project. He noted that while Ocean City remains firmly against it, neighboring Delaware has not taken a similar stance, despite the potential impact on the region.

The final environmental impact assessment for the Maryland Offshore Wind project was submitted to US Wind on July 29. If approved, the project could generate between 1.1 and 2.2GW of energy for the Delmarva Peninsula, where Ocean City is located, potentially providing power to as many as 770,000 homes.

“This totally industrializes the horizon off the coast of Ocean City. They will be visible. The sunrise will never be the same,” Meehan expressed, voicing concerns that the project would diminish “the area’s charm.”

Meehan also mentioned that the town has retained a law firm to help pursue legal action against BOEM, with co-plaintiffs from the town already signed on.

Dave Wilson, Maryland development manager for US Wind, argued that the project would not harm marine life, citing "good science" and decades of experience in Europe as safeguards against environmental damage.

However, Ocean City officials remain concerned about BOEM’s review process, particularly its consideration of local concerns. The town fears that the project could negatively affect tourism and local revenue.

“We’re basically suing on the basis of the final report and their opinion and what they’re stating as the reasons for their approval,” Meehan explained, adding that he also worries about the potential impact the turbines could have on fishing in the area.