Compromise bill sets parameters for offshore wind farms

BOSTON—A compromise bill on Beacon Hill would allow offshore wind farms in ocean sanctuaries, but only if they are "appropriately scaled" and subject to a strict ocean management plan.

A legislative conference committee agreed this week on the bill, which could go before the full House and Senate next week.

Environmentalists and other critics of an earlier House version of the bill said it would have allowed for unlimited renewable energy development in ocean sanctuaries.

State Sen. Robert O'Leary, of Barnstable, said the compromise bill recognizes the need to develop renewable energy, but puts the public interest ahead of the private interest.

The measure could allow for development of a proposed wind farm in Buzzards Bay, which is one of five protected ocean sanctuaries off Massachusetts.

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Information from: Cape Cod Times, http://www.capecodonline.com