EPA Orders Maryland to Reissue Offshore Wind Permit Over Legal Errors

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) improperly issued the final permit for the U.S. Wind offshore wind project off the coast of Ocean City, citing several legal and procedural errors. The EPA specifically criticized MDE for providing misleading information about the public's right to appeal, incorrectly directing appeals to state court rather than the federally mandated process. As a result, the EPA is requiring MDE to reissue the permit in full compliance with federal procedures, warning that failure to do so could invalidate the permit on appeal. Congressman Andy Harris, representing Maryland's First Congressional District, applauded the EPA's findings, emphasizing that his constituents have long opposed the offshore wind project due to concerns about environmental and economic impacts. Despite opposition, Maryland officials have expressed commitment to advancing offshore wind to meet rising energy demands. The EPA’s letter outlines clear steps for correcting the permit process to ensure proper federal appeal rights are communicated and upheld.