The effect of offshore wind power projects on recreational beach use on the east coast of the United States: Evidence from contingent-behavior data

Abstract

We use contingent-behavior data from a stated-preference survey to estimate the effect of offshore wind power projects on recreational beach use on the East Coast of the United States. The data are from an internet-based probabilistic sample of beachgoers (n = 1725) visiting beaches from Massachusetts to South Carolina in 2015. The contingent-behavior data are based on responses to visual simulations of wind power projects at seven different distances offshore (2.5–20 miles) in clear and hazy conditions and at night. We consider the effect on beach enjoyment/experienceand trips taken to a beach. As expected the nearer the projects are to shore, the greater their negative effect. For example, at 2.5-miles offshore, 29% of the sample state they would not visit the beach compared to only 5% at 20-miles offshore. Offsetting the negative effects, we also find evidence of potentially a large numbers of curiosity trips to view offshore wind power projects.