This week, the Trump Administration initiated plans to revoke approval for two substantial wind farm developments situated off the New England coast. Valued at nearly $15 billion, this undertaking represented a significant advantage for the area, providing a valuable supply of new power during a period of increasing demand.
This action by Trump marks the most recent in a series of challenges against the U.S. wind energy sector. Initially, it might seem predominantly an assault on clean energy and initiatives addressing climate change, which indeed forms a considerable component of the situation.
However, looking beyond the climate perspective, the assertive campaign against wind power extends beyond merely an anti-climate stance. By singling out investments already underway, and in some instances nearing completion, Trump’s action undermines the fundamental principles of the free market and private business. Although previous administrations have adjusted subsidies and modified regulatory standards, targeting projects under active construction introduces an unparalleled degree of regulatory unpredictability, jeopardizing the established process for developing major infrastructure in America and giving government discretion undue influence.
Currently, within climate and energy discussions, wind power is often perceived as the less favored option among clean energy sources, even as other renewables anticipate promising prospects despite an unfavorable administration. Economic factors and increasing energy demand are expected to continue generating opportunities for solar power and battery storage. Nevertheless, the rapid and extensive efforts to curtail wind power ought to emphasize that no sector is entirely secure.
Trump’s opposition to wind energy dates back well before his second presidential term began in January. During his career as a real estate developer, he voiced concerns that wind turbines off the Scottish coast were negatively impacting his coastal golf course. Over the past decade, he has repeatedly denounced these power sources for various reasons. Consequently, regardless of any policy rationales provided by the administration, his objection is, at least partially, personal.
During Trump’s initial term, his administration sought to bolster coal and impede renewables, achieving varied degrees of success and dedication. However, his current term has taken a different approach. Early in his new tenure, the Trump administration halted new permits for offshore wind projects and initiated a review of existing federal land leases for wind development. Subsequently, the administration has reduced clean energy tax credits, implemented tariffs on certain components of the wind supply chain, and, with limited explanation, commenced a national security inquiry into offshore wind.
Particularly notable and unprecedented has been the assault on projects that have already secured permits or are actively undergoing construction. The developments targeted this week—New England Wind 1 and 2—were permitted last year. The firm constructing the Revolution Wind project, approximately 80% complete, was issued a stop work order in August, with the administration citing “national security” concerns. Earlier this year, the administration temporarily paused construction on Empire Wind, another significant project near the New York coast. The White House permitted construction to restart after New York’s governor approved a new natural gas pipeline. In each of these situations, billions of dollars in private capital are at risk—investments meticulously planned on the premise of a stable legal system.
“Energy projects that have received permits should not be stopped at such an advanced phase,” stated Martin Durbin, senior vice president of policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, on Sept. 3. “Withdrawing wind permits now introduces unpredictability for all future energy initiatives.”
This is a significant caution originating from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a business advocacy organization historically linked with the Republican Party. Trump’s approach to wind power communicates to major capital investors that their project’s viability might hinge on his approval. In such an environment, it will be challenging not only to significantly invest in the energy transition but also to construct essential infrastructure requiring substantial investment, thereby impeding efforts to address climate change and promote economic prosperity.
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