Nantucket beaches reopen after Vineyard Wind debris removal; feds issue ‘Suspension Order’ for wind energy company

All Nantucket beaches reopened to swimming on Wednesday after lifeguards and workers removed loads of debris from the Vineyard Wind damaged turbine incident.

The island’s southern-facing beaches had shut down to swimming the day before as large floating debris and sharp fiberglass shards from the turbine washed ashore.

“The Town of Nantucket announces that all south shore beaches have been reopened for swimming and recreational activities after extensive debris recovery efforts,” the town said in a statement on Wednesday.

The majority of the debris has been cleared. However, lifeguards were continuing to monitor the water for any remaining floating debris.

“While the beaches are now open, visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear while walking along the beach,” the town said. “Please continue to leave pets at home to ensure their safety.”

Lifeguards and staff have been clearing the debris, wearing appropriate footwear and PPE when handling it.

Meanwhile on Wednesday, the feds said they had issued a “Suspension Order” for Vineyard Wind to cease power production from all its wind turbine generators “until it can be determined whether the blade failure affects any other VW turbines.”

“The Suspension Order suspends power production on the lease area and suspends installation of new wind turbine generator construction: Those operations will remain shut down until the suspension is lifted,” the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement said in a statement.

“BSEE has also issued a Preservation Order to safeguard any evidence that may be relevant to determining the cause of the incident,” the feds added.

There have been no reported injuries or harm to any marine resources or mammals from the incident.

“BSEE is onsite with Vineyard Wind as investigations are underway,” the federal agency said. “BSEE will conduct an independent assessment to ensure the safety of future offshore renewable energy operations.”

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Nantucket beaches shut down to swimming after debris from Vineyard Wind turbine washes ashore

The turbine blade failure incident happened on Saturday at Vineyard Wind 1, about 21 miles south of Nantucket.

The debris consists of non-toxic fiberglass fragments, ranging in size from small pieces to larger sections, typically green or white in color.

Debris patrol teams were inspecting: Miacomet Beach and the southeastern tip of Nantucket, including Nobadeer Beach, Madequecham Beach, Pebble Beach, Tom Nevers Beach, Low Beach, and Sconset Beach, or other areas where debris may wash ashore.

The blade broke about 20 meters out from the root. The turbine was in its commissioning phase, and was still undergoing testing.

The cause of the blade failure incident remains under investigation.

Debris from the damaged wind turbine was washing up on Nantucket beaches. (Town of Nantucket photo)

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