Federal Judge Allows Resumption of Revolution Wind Project Amid National Security Concerns

A federal judge has lifted the halt on the nearly completed Revolution Wind project, allowing construction to resume despite the Trump administration's national security objections.

The Revolution Wind project, located off the coasts of Rhode Island and Connecticut, had been paused since August 22 when the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued a stop-work order citing unspecified national security concerns. The project, developed by Danish energy company Ørsted and its joint venture partner Skyborn Renewables, is approximately 80% complete and aims to supply power to over 350,000 homes.

In a recent court hearing, Judge Royce Lamberth granted a preliminary injunction to Ørsted and Skyborn Renewables, enabling them to proceed with construction. He noted that the delays were costing $2.3 million daily and that missing project deadlines could jeopardize the entire enterprise. Judge Lamberth stated, "There is no question in my mind of irreparable harm to the plaintiffs."

The Interior Department, overseeing BOEM, indicated that while construction may resume, the investigation into potential national security impacts continues. Interior Department spokeswoman Elizabeth Peace commented that the ruling allows Revolution Wind to "resume construction" while BOEM "continues its investigation into possible impacts by the project to national security and prevention of other uses on the Outer Continental Shelf."

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong and Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha welcomed the judge's decision, emphasizing the project's importance for workers and families in their states. Connecticut Representative Joe Courtney also expressed support, stating that a multibillion-dollar project that is 80% complete and was fully permitted with input by the Pentagon is not a national security problem.

The Trump administration has previously taken actions against offshore wind projects, including halting construction and revoking permits, citing various concerns. The Revolution Wind project is intended to be Rhode Island's and Connecticut's first large offshore wind farm, contributing significantly to the region's renewable energy supply.

Ørsted has announced plans to resume construction promptly and intends to continue collaborating with the administration to address any outstanding concerns.