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Smooth sailing for offshore wind?

High costs, infuriatingly complex regulatory approvals, a lack of government financial support, and environmental opposition have badly impeded what otherwise may seem an obvious and attractive alternative to fossil fuel and nuclear power. Offshore wind gives off little or no pollution and contributes next to nothing to global warming. Its chief drawback is that it can be a hazard to migratory birds — that, and the worry that wind turbines can ruin spectators' sea views. Now, however, the fledgling wind industry is showing signs of life, including the possible construction starts for two projects and the first-ever federal competitive bidding of locations for new wind farms off of New England and Virginia.

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