California Sues U.S. Government Over Offshore Wind Farm Cancellation

California has sued the Trump administration over an agreement that effectively ended plans for the Golden State Wind offshore wind project near Morro Bay, on the state’s Central Coast.

The lawsuit, filed by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the California Energy Commission, challenges a deal under which the U.S. Department of the Interior agreed to return $120 million paid for the project’s offshore lease. The funds are to be redirected toward oil and gas projects.

The state argues that cancelling the planned floating wind farm threatens jobs and undermines California’s investments in the offshore wind industry.

Bonta described the agreement as a “backroom buyout” and accused the administration of favoring fossil-fuel interests.

The Interior Department defended the settlements, saying they were voluntary and had undergone review by the Department of Justice. A department spokesperson also argued that offshore wind projects could increase utility costs and create environmental risks.

David Hochschild, chair of the California Energy Commission, said the state would continue pursuing clean energy despite the administration’s actions.

“We will not let the Trump administration’s reckless actions turn back the clock,” Hochschild said.

The lawsuit adds to an ongoing dispute between California and the federal government over the future of offshore wind development in the United States.

Source: nytimes.com