DNREC, US Wind host information session on state permits

In advance of a virtual public hearing in July, Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and US Wind hosted a joint information session on the power company’s plans to connect its offshore wind farm to the power grid by making landfall at 3R’s Beach south of the Indian River Inlet.

US Wind’s proposed project comprises up to 121 wind turbine generators, up to four offshore substations, up to four offshore export cables and one meteorological tower in ocean waters due east of Ocean City, Md. The offshore export cables are proposed to land at 3R’s Beach, north of Bethany Beach, and interconnect into a proposed substation that would be constructed on land adjacent to the Indian River power plant.

The final decision on US Wind’s project will come from the federal government, but DNREC will need to make decisions on a number of permit requests. The Division of Water issued notices for a subaqueous lands permit, and a water-quality certification and a wetlands permit. The Division of Watershed Stewardship issued a notice for a beach preservation coastal construction permit. Copies of these permit applications and supporting documents are available online at de.gov/dnrecnotices.

Matt Ritter, director of DNREC’s Division of Community Affairs, said turnout was good for the June 5 information session, estimating there were 150 people in attendance representing both sides of the issue. There were people lined up at the door when it opened, he said.

Ritter said the information session was conducted in Lewes so that DNREC could get as wide a swath of participants as possible. Other meetings have been held in Bethany Beach and at Indian River High School.

Nikki Lavoie, DNREC spokesperson, said DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin is expected to make his decision on the permit applications by the end of the year. His decision will be based on the rules and regulations in state code, she said.

“This will not be his personal decision,” said Lavoie.

The virtual public hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m., Tuesday, July 9. DNREC will accept written comments on the second round of public notices through Monday, Sept. 9.

For additional details about the project, along with related documents, the public is encouraged to visit DNREC’s website at de.gov/uswind. DNREC is asking for preregistration to provide public comment at the hearing. Or, submit written comments, accepted until Sept. via email to DNRECHearingComments@delaware.gov;by using the online form at de.gov/dnreccomments; or by U.S. mail to Lisa A. Vest, Hearing Officer, Office of the Secretary, Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901.

For more information on how to submit public comments or how to get more information on the notices, contact Nikki Lavoie, DNREC chief communications officer, at 302-739-9902 or by email, nikki.lavoie@delaware.gov.