A proposed offshore wind farm has ignited a bitter dispute among wealthy residents of the Hamptons, with celebrities and business leaders opposing an underground cable route through Wainscott. New York state approved the South Fork Wind farm on Thursday, but opponents argue the cable installation could erode the beach and cause noise pollution.
The wind turbines will be located off Montauk, but the necessary underground cable will run beneath Wainscott, an affluent area where homes cost tens of millions. Among those who signed a 2018 petition against the cable are actress Edie Falco, banker Daniel Neidich, and reality star Barbara Kavovit. Billionaire Ronald Lauder and marketing guru Faith Popcorn also oppose the plan.
Opponents claim the cable poses fire and electromagnetic field risks, and that construction would generate noise and fumes. The group Citizens for the Preservation of Wainscott has raised $1 million and filed a lawsuit against the town, the developer, and the town supervisor. They argue the infrastructure will permanently alter the fragile beach and community.
Supporters, including East Hampton town supervisor Peter Van Scoyoc, accuse opponents of NIMBYism. He noted the issue has become personal and divisive within the community. Retired lawyer Jerry Mulligan, who supports the project, hopes the opposition group will disband but acknowledges the residents are wealthy and not used to losing.
Experts say the cable will be buried 30 feet underground and that construction noise will be temporary and low-risk. The Danish company Ørsted is developing the farm, which would be New York's first offshore wind project. President Joe Biden has pledged to double offshore wind production by 2030.
