US study: offshore wind farms can attract fish

The U.S. Coast Guard Academy surveyed about 200 recreational fishermen about their views on the Block Island Wind Farm, the nation’s first offshore power plant operating off the coast of Rhode Island, the smallest U.S. state.

The research team found a generally neutral or positive impact on recreational fishing. Many of the respondents believe that turbines improve fishing: their bases attract fish like artificial reefs.

However, some respondents expressed concerns about this or future wind projects. They worry, for example, whether wind turbines will interfere with access to fishing or cause crowds.

As a reminder, according to the DNV expert group, wind generation in the world will increase from 2,000 TWh in 2022 to 18,300 TWh in 2050. The average annual growth rate will be 8%.