According to two recent studies, both forms of offshore energy have the potential to create or sustain thousands of jobs in North Carolina as well as produce an economic benefit into the billions. So the question now becomes, which type of offshore energy will our legislators pursue? On one hand, we have “green” wind while [...]
- Jul27
Job Creation in N.C.? Eh, Not So Much…
When HB 628, the bill authorizing the funding of a $25 million fishing pier in Dare county, passed the House in early April, Representative Tim Spear (D – Washington) claimed the “shovel-ready” project would create 1,800 jobs both on and off site in a region with nearly double digit unemployment. Hard to say “thanks, but [...]
- Jul23
Now Hiring: Part-Time Pier Construction Observer
Duties to include calling stakeholders if a crane falls down as well as guided tours for elected officials. Prior experience with N. C. Aquarium projects preferred. No, this is not a hoax. With construction underway at the N.C. Aquariums – Jennette’s Pier, the Aquarium Division is hiring a part-time “on-site manager” to serve as the [...]
- Jul15
Banning Wind Energy Facilities in Western N.C., Yet Another Case of NIMBYism
An article in today’s N&O cites Senator Martin Nesbitt’s (D–Buncombe) argument that “industrial-scale wind turbines would destroy pristine views” as reason enough to ban commercial wind energy facilities in the mountains. (But it’s okay to have them on our pristine coastline… go figure.) While this is clearly a stretch given the extensive site requirements of [...]
- Jul08
Wind Farms on the Not-So-Scenic Horizon?
Despite the murky at best economics and current feasibility issues, legislators are continuing to push for wind farms in North Carolina. According to Senator Albertson (D-Duplin), with 98% of our energy currently coming from out-of-state sources and REPS requirements of S.L. 2007-398 (Senate Bill 3) looming, Senate Bill 1068, Permitting of Wind Energy Facilities, is [...]