WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration said Monday it is pausing leases for five large-scale offshore wind projects due to unspecified national security risks identified by the Pentagon. The effective pause will allow the Interior Department to collaborate with the Defense Department to assess and mitigate any security risks posed by these energy initiatives. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum emphasized the government's primary duty to protect the American people, citing concerns over emerging adversary technologies. The affected projects include Vineyard Wind in Massachusetts, Revolution Wind in Rhode Island and Connecticut, Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, and two projects in New York: Sunrise Wind and Empire Wind. This action comes in the wake of a federal judge ruling that struck down Trump's previous executive order blocking such projects, highlighting ongoing conflicts over renewable energy initiatives.
Wind Projects Halted Amid National Security Concerns
The Trump administration has halted major offshore wind projects on the East Coast due to national security risks assessed by the Pentagon.
In a surprising move, the Trump administration has paused leases for five large-scale offshore wind energy projects due to national security concerns. The decision is aimed at addressing potential risks identified by the Pentagon, particularly regarding the interference caused by the turbine blades and reflective towers. This pause affects projects in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. The move follows a recent court ruling against previous attempts to block wind energy projects, reflecting ongoing tensions in the energy sector.
