“We really look to the state now to work with us, to help us get these permit applications floated through quickly, and (to be) ... responsive and help make this happen."

He says the project isn't expecting state investment. "We understand that’s not something they are willing to do at the time, so let’s focus on what the project really needs, which is those permits.”

The Lake Erie project is one of seven offshore wind projects nationwide competing for $180 million from the U.S. Department of Energy.  Three will be selected to move forward.

Karpinski says it will cost between $100 million and $150 million to build up to nine wind turbines seven miles into Lake Erie.

If selected, LEEDCo will begin construction in 2015.