The Trump administration is suspending the leases for multiple wind energy projects along the East Coast. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum confirmed the suspension in a post on X, writing five leases were being paused due to "national security concerns," and it marks another escalation of the administration's attacks on the wind energy industry. A news release from the Interior Department cited potential radar interference known as "clutter" from wind turbines.
Meantime, Congressman Gabe Amo says “Trump’s attacks on Revolution Wind are not based on science and facts. The Administration is putting forward disingenuous arguments about ‘national security’ to try to kill this project simply because Donald Trump doesn’t like offshore wind. I will keep fighting to make sure this project is completed. We must deliver more affordable energy and a greener future for all Rhode Islanders.”
Governor McKee in a separate statement says “The Trump administration’s latest attempt to derail offshore wind projects is reckless and unjustified. It threatens local economies, thousands of jobs, and the affordable, reliable energy our communities need.
“Trying to stop these projects now is cruel to workers and their families, especially during the holiday season. Revolution Wind is nearly complete, has received all necessary approvals, and has had its permits upheld by a federal court—there is no reason to halt its progress. We will work with other impacted states to pursue every available option to keep this project, and others like it, moving forward.”
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont also blasted the administration's decision.
The projects are located near New England, Virginia and New York with the possibility to generate enough electricity to power up to about two-point-five million homes.
(Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
Photo: Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images News / Getty Images