U.S. offshore wind delayed by parts

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J., Nov. 24 (UPI) -- With more U.S. offshore wind projects being approved, parts are putting some projects on hold.

Demand for turbine parts has increased so much that projects such as the Garden State Offshore Energy are building lead time into their schedules, the Press of Atlantic City reported.

"That right there is kind of evidence of the demand," GSOE President Chris Wisseman said. "The demand far outstretches supply."

The American Wind Energy Association is now estimating that about 7,500 megawatts worth of power will be generated from offshore wind by the end of 2008. That is estimated to be enough electricity to power 2.2 million homes. There are currently 19 new offshore wind energy facilities planned for 2009 as well.