Researchers from the Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium first contacted me through VB Dems. They explained that they wanted to talk to Democrats about their study so I put them in touch with the powers that be with the VBDC. This of course got pushed right up to the front of the line (they'll speak this Sat., Feb. 23, 9am at Jason's Deli) because the researchers also mentioned in their introduction that they had given a similar presentation to the Virginia Beach Republicans. We can't be outdone by Republicans, now can we? Especially on this particular subject thank you very much.
The Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium is a project funded by the Commonwealth of Virginia and mandated by the Virginia General Assembly. The project involves research into the potential impact of renewable energy projects in the waters off Virginia's shores, namely offshore wind energy and algae cultivation for biodiesel production. Their findings will be reported back to the GA in July 2008.
I was however fool enough to be mildly excited to learn that these researchers who would be delivering their presentation for Democrats, had also given the same presentation to Virginia Beach Republicans. Maybe this mutual interest would translate to a coming together to support the study of an alternative energy source that not only supports all kinds of great research and development at our local universities but also supports the development of lots of new green jobs for our area. Silly me!
Instead, VCERC making the presentation to Virginia Beach Republicans only made them a target: a House Republican budget amendment (Item 254 #1h) cut all funding for VCERC in the FY 08-09 and FY 09-10 budgets. That's a $2.25 million cut in VCERC funding. I guess the Republican rationale is that since a new coal plant is going to be built in Wise County, there is no need for research in coastal energy.
Anyone know if the Navy has anything to say about such a project, down VB way?
This photo shows a wind farm sited just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) off a shoreline in the U.K. Planned Delaware windmills, however, will be sited six miles offshore. "You probably wouldn't be able to tell what they are," said Jim Lanard, a spokesman for the company proposing the Delaware windmills. (Source: WaPo, ""Delaware Energy Debate Could Turn on the Wind", 5/7/07)