The Federal Aviation Administration said the proposed Cape Wind power project off the Massachusetts coast poses no risk to air navigation, clearing a hurdle for what may be the first U.S. offshore wind facility.

The agency determined that 130 wind turbines in the Nantucket Sound won’t affect planes in the area, according to a statement today.

“Having sold more than three quarters of its power in long-term Power Purchase Agreements with Massachusetts electric utilities, Cape Wind has commenced its project financing stage,” Mark Rodgers, Cape Wind Associates LLC’s communications director, said in separate statement.

Construction on the 468-megawatt wind farm, which will consist of turbines made by Siemens AG, has been planned for more than a decade and may begin as early as next year, Cape Wind Associates said on June 26. The project has been opposed by the Kennedy family, which owns a compound that overlooks the sound.

Lead image: Looking Towards Martha's Vineyard From Nobska Point, Cape Cod via Shutterstock