Ocean County Leader

In a report released by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), concerns raised by New Jersey Republican Congressmen Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew about the interference of offshore wind turbines with military radar systems have been validated. The GAO report confirms the potential for wind turbines to hinder radar performance used for defense and maritime navigation, highlighting issues such as diminished detection sensitivity, obscured potential targets, and the generation of false targets.

Congressman Smith criticized wind energy advocates for minimizing the findings of a 2022 National Academy of Sciences report that initially identified the issues. In an interview with Eric Scott on the New Jersey 101.5 Morning Show, Smith emphasized the risks posed to radar systems that assist vessels and aircraft, particularly those approaching LaGuardia and Newark International airports. "We're going to have a reduction of performance of radar, and they have affirmed that, making it more dangerous, both to be on the water or in the air," Smith stated.

The report also outlined ongoing efforts to mitigate radar interference. These include agreements between the Department of Defense (DOD) and wind farm lessees to halt operations if necessary, as well as research by NOAA and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute to develop software solutions. The GAO noted that additional radar systems are being explored to lessen the impact.

Smith expressed concern over the Empire 1 project near Monmouth County, planned to include up to 50 turbines, which might affect naval operations. He commended former President Donald Trump's executive order placing a moratorium on new wind project licensing. Smith also mentioned discussing the issue with Interior Secretary Doug Burgham, who is reportedly examining the matter closely.

Van Drew pointed out that the GAO report substantiates the notion that wind energy projects advanced too quickly without addressing these safety concerns. He asserted that "these risks are very real," lauding Trump's decision to pause the projects and calling for their termination to prevent further harm.

GAO: Wind turbines impact military radar systems