Study: Buxton best area in NC for wind energy

BUXTON, N.C. — A new study says the best spot for utility-scale wind energy is in the Pamlico Sound off Buxton along North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk reported that feasibility study found most other state waters aren’t suitable for wind-energy development. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
conducted the study, which was requested last year by Dare Sen. Marc Basnight.

The study is to be unveiled at a state Coastal Resources Commission meeting Thursday.

The nine-month study analyzed the areas of available wind power, the ecological risks, user conflicts, electrical transmission infrastructure, regulatory barriers and carbon reduction potential.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)