The potential for offshore wind is gaining support in the Valley, but there is concern over wind turbine placement.

"It's being identified as a very large and capturable resource," said Kenny Howell, an analyst for the Virginia Center for Wind Energy at James Madison University.

Some say that resource can save Virginians money.

"We have high energy prices. We're paying a lot for electricity and in the state of Virginia the majority of our energy is coming from coal, which is relatively cheap, but it also has an impact on the environment," said Remy Luerssen.

Luerssen says Virginia should begin investing in it's economic future.

"Coal is going to run out, natural gas isn't going to last forever, so we need to start adding some renewable energy, be that solar or wind," she said.

Richard Baugh, a Harrisonburg attorney, says many people think wind turbines are unattractive.

"Obviously when you have open space and big open areas with large wind turbines, it affects the visual aesthetics, said Baugh."

"There's a lot of movement as people have tried to develop turbines that are smaller or less visually intrusive, and yet as effective if not more effective," he added.

"A lot of times people use the aesthetics issue to mask another issue like they just don't want it in their backyard," said Luerssen.

Howell says the positives outweigh the negatives.

He says after the BP oil spill in the Gulf, many have been apprehensive about change, even if it promotes renewable energy.

"A wind spill will have minimal environmental impacts, and off the coast of Virginia and off the East Coast for many of the states is being identified as a very large and capturable resource."

Howell also says that there are many myths regarding wind turbines and encourages the public to educate themselves on the topic.

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