TRENTON, N.J. — Environmental leaders across New Jersey are speaking out against a series of anti-offshore wind energy rallies planned for this weekend, criticizing them as coordinated efforts backed by the oil and gas industry to undermine clean energy progress.
The New Jersey Wind Works Coalition, composed of prominent environmental and conservation groups, condemned the protests, accusing fossil fuel interests of funding misinformation campaigns aimed at blocking renewable energy development.
“Tone-deaf pro-oil and gas MAGA Republicans are having coordinated rallies as climate change-fueled LA fires destroy communities, homes, businesses, and burn people alive,” said Ed Potosnak, Executive Director of New Jersey LCV. “These anti-wind protests are nothing but astroturf front groups doing the dirty work of big oil and gas to stop progress towards a cheaper and cleaner energy future that saves lives.”
Capt. Paul Eidman of Anglers for Offshore Wind highlighted the ecological benefits of offshore wind development. “Offshore wind isn’t just about clean energy—it’s a win for fishing and the marine ecosystem,” Eidman said, emphasizing how turbines create artificial reefs that support fish populations and enhance marine habitats.
Advocates also pointed to the economic and health advantages of offshore wind. Heidi Yeh, Policy Director for the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, called on lawmakers to prioritize renewable energy. “Offshore wind will not only reduce harmful fossil fuel emissions but also create stable, good-paying union jobs,” Yeh said. “The New Jersey Legislature must codify the goal for 100% clean energy by 2035.”
Jennifer M. Coffey, Executive Director of the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commission (ANJEC), criticized what she described as an “anti-science and disinformation campaign” against renewable energy. “Offshore wind has been in operation internationally for nearly 35 years,” Coffey stated. “The best available time to act to support renewable energy production is now.”
Anne Poole, President of the New Jersey Environmental Lobby, warned of the long-term consequences of fossil fuel reliance. “Celebrating lies and misinformation about offshore wind energy may achieve Big Oil’s goals in the short run, but the U.S. and the entire globe will pay for continued fossil fuel pollution,” Poole said.
Environmental leaders continue to emphasize the urgent need for renewable energy development as climate-related disasters escalate nationwide.
New Jersey environmental groups are uniting against fossil fuel-backed protests, defending offshore wind as essential for the state’s clean energy future.