"Panel Advises Against Cape Cod Wind Project"

"A federal advisory panel urged the U.S. Interior Department on Friday to block a $1 billion wind project off Cape Cod opposed by local business leaders and politicians but seen as helpful to the Obama administration's energy strategy.

Cape Wind Associates LLC has proposed building 130 wind towers that would soar 440 feet above the surface of Nantucket Sound near the popular Massachusetts tourist areas of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Island.

The proposed wind farm would provide electricity to about 400,000 homes but would be within view of the popular resorts. It would be the country's first major offshore wind farm.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, however, said the project would adversely affect 34 historic properties, including 16 historic districts, 12 individually significant historic properties and six properties of religious and cultural significance to local Indian tribes."

Tom Doggett reports for Reuters April 2, 2010.