Wind Energy in Oregon
Oregon Shores is acutely aware of the current impacts and grave implications of the climate crisis. Addressing climate change is interwoven with every aspect of our work. We clearly recognize that developing renewable sources of energy that can replace the use of fossil fuels is an essential aspect of any strategy for slowing and eventually abating climate change.
Based on its position amidst global wind currents, Oregon has the potential to contribute sustainable, clean energy to this global movement by exploiting wind energy, whether onshore or via floating offshore turbines. However, floating offshore wind has been installed in very few places worldwide and is not well-studied. There are many questions about the technology’s possible environmental and community justice impacts. If floating offshore wind should ever be developed off Oregon’s coast, it is essential that we maximize community benefits, involve Tribal members and diverse voices in development discussions, minimize harm to marine and estuarine environments, and protect existing industries, such as fishing, aquaculture, and tourism, from damage or displacement. Should such development occur, Oregon Shores will work to ensure the least possible impact to Oregon’s marine and coastal environments and communities.