On the heels of the Broadwater barge controversy, another energy project is receiving late opposition from some Long Island residents.

After holding public hearings and receiving permission from the Public Service Commission, the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) began work on the 65-mile Neptune Cable. The electric cable, which links New Jersey and Long Island, is being buried between six and 60 feet below the Atlantic Ocean, Jones Beach, along the Wantagh Parkway, Bethpage State Park and other locations. Outgoing LIPA Chairman Richard Kessel says Neptune will provide cheap and reliable energy to 500,000 homes, which will come from states using nuclear and coal power.

Opponents fear LIPA underestimates the environmental fallout. They say old trees being dug up are irreplaceable, and the electric currents could attract sharks. Critics also believe increased exposure to electromagnetic fields could yield severe health hazards.

Neptune Cable is scheduled to be operational by the first week of July. Related Information LIPA - Neptune Cable Neptune Regional Transmission System, LLC