Democratic governors of Rhode Island and Connecticut expressed their intention to contest a recent order from the Trump administration that has led to the suspension of work on the nearly finished Revolution Wind project. This offshore wind farm, which was reported to be around 80% complete with 45 out of 65 turbines installed, was expected to commence operations in the following year.
The halt order was issued by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), which cited concerns regarding national security interests as the reason for its decision. The agency requested a comprehensive review of the project due to the recent executive order from Donald Trump directing a reevaluation of existing wind energy leases. Acting BOEM Director Matt Giacona stated that Ørsted, the developer, cannot resume its activities until this review is complete, although he did not specify the exact national security concerns involved.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont emphasized their commitment to reversing the decision, underscoring that the project is vital for supplying power to over 350,000 homes. Senator Chris Murphy also criticized the suspension, suggesting that it intertwines with Trump’s past interactions with the oil industry, particularly his appeal for significant campaign contributions in exchange for regulatory leniency.
The Revolution Wind project holds strategic importance for Rhode Island and Connecticut, both of which have limited capacity for land-based renewable energy projects. Wind energy is identified as a crucial component in addressing climate goals, especially given ongoing concerns over global warming effects such as extreme weather patterns.
In addition, legal challenges were posed by non-profit Green Oceans, which opposes offshore wind projects, and they welcomed the administration’s order. This marks the second major offshore wind initiative halted under the current administration, with prior stoppages on the Empire Wind project, which later resumed after political intervention.
Overall, the impact of this order on the renewable energy landscape in the U.S. remains to be fully seen, as stakeholders weigh legal and regulatory implications.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/aug/23/wind-farm-rhode-island-connecticut