Center for American Progress

Organized Labor Is Uncovering the Truth About Offshore Wind in Rhode Island
Video

Organized Labor Is Uncovering the Truth About Offshore Wind in Rhode Island

On the front lines of the clean energy transition, Rhode Island’s offshore wind developments and union workforce are disproving misinformation spread by the fossil fuel industry and showcasing the benefits of federal climate investments for local communities and economies.

Rhode Island is feeling the benefits of climate investments and labor requirements put forth by the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act and bipartisan infrastructure law. Patrick Crowley, president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO chapter, has seen firsthand how federal funding and regulations for the state’s offshore wind (OSW) developments have proved to be a boon for the local economy and the environment. From fostering long-term economic sustainability, energy security, and high-quality labor standards, to empowering workers with strong wages, employment stability, and the resources to secure a sustainable future, OSW developments are driving economic growth and improving community resilience. Still, the fossil fuel industry’s misinformation campaign undermines the reality of renewables such as OSW with false claims, preferring to protect sector profits over the well-being of local communities and the environment. The story of success playing out in Rhode Island debunks these myths that are being promoted by bad actors.

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Authors

Margaret Cooney

Senior Campaign Manager of Storytelling, Energy and Environment Campaigns

Devon Lespier

Research Assistant, Energy and Environment Campaigns

Producers

Hai-Lam Phan

Senior Director, Creative

Adam Reich

Olivia Mowry

Video Producer

Department

Energy and Environment

Charting an equitable and just path to a 100 percent clean economy with net-zero climate pollution, protection of 30 percent of lands and waters, and community investments

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