Offshore wind farms in the Great Lakes are technologically feasible but more research is required, according to a draft report issued by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) in October.
The PSC’s study found that Great Lakes wind farms have the potential to create power on a larger scale than land because winds over the lakes are stronger and more consistent. They also may present fewer concerns about interfering with other land uses.
On the other hand, energy from offshore wind likely would cost more than energy from land-based farms. Wind turbine materials are expensive due to worldwide demand, offshore construction is pricier than on land and maintenance could cost more than land-based turbines.
The cost of energy from offshore wind likely would decrease as technology and operational experience improve.
The report noted that Wisconsin’s existing transmission system could support the output from smaller-scale wind farms near cities that deliver less than 600 megawatts of electricity, but larger projects may require substantial upgrades.
Offshore wind farms also would require complicated reviews and multiple approvals under state and federal law, it said.
The PSC would need to collect more data on wind speeds and the impact on wildlife if it decides to continue researching prospects, the report said.
The Commission undertook the study after Gov. Jim Doyle's Global Warming Task Force recommended it explore the matter.
The panel sought public comment on the draft report until Nov. 10. It will now prepare a final version and then decide whether to continue gathering data.
