For several years now, residents of Cape Cod and all of New England have been talking about the Cape Wind project. This project calls for the construction of 130 offshore wind turbines in a shallow area between the Cape, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket. The proposed plan, which is still struggling to obtain permits and approvals, could potentially supply three-quarters of the Cape and Islands' electricity needs.

Environmentalists tout the project not only because it represents clean, renewable energy, but because the Cape currently receives electricity from oil and natural gas rather than coal. This means that Cape Wind would directly result in less oil consumption, which is always good news. But even in these times of uncertain oil prices, Cape Wind still has its critics. While a recent survey found that 84% of Massachusetts residents supported the project, only 58% of Cape residents supported it.

As one might expect, the most frequently cited reason for opposing the project is the aesthetics of the wind towers. And yes, this wind farm would be visible from shore on a clear day under the current plan. From the nearest beach, it is estimated that the towers would appear one half-inch above the horizon. "Well that's no big deal," I thought to myself upon reading this, "What are these people complaining about?" Then I saw that the Cape Wind website offered simulated images of what these towers would look like from a number of Cape beaches. When I saw them, however, I was surprised by my reaction. At first glance, I did not like the look of these towers. On second glance, I liked them even less.

From a practical point of view, the benefits of Cape Wind are obvious, and from a purely rational viewpoint, I think this project is a no-brainer. At the same time, there is a part of me that does not like this plan. While it might be a bit harsh to say these beautiful views are "ruined" by the presence of 130 turbines, I still feel something of the natural beauty of these beaches is lost. Isn't preserving the natural beauty of this planet part of environmentalism, too? Of course, I know that continuing to burn oil isn't doing much for the Earth's natural beauty, either.

Ultimately, I'm not sure how I feel about this issue. It is definitely more complicated than I originally thought. I understand the benefit and importance of renewable energy; and at the same time, I can sympathize with the 42% of Cape residents who oppose the project.

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