Trump Administration Halts Nearly Completed Offshore Wind Project Near Rhode Island

The Trump administration has ordered a halt to the nearly completed Revolution Wind project off the Rhode Island coast, citing unspecified national security concerns. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued the stop-work order, stating the need to review the project to address these concerns.

Developed by Danish company Ørsted, the $1.5 billion project is approximately 80% complete, with 45 of its 65 turbines installed. It was expected to supply power to over 350,000 homes in Rhode Island and Connecticut upon completion.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee criticized the decision, stating that the action undermines efforts to expand the energy supply, lower costs, and strengthen regional reliability. Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont also expressed opposition, indicating plans to pursue avenues to reverse the halt.

Ørsted is evaluating the financial impact of the stop-work order and is considering legal proceedings to resolve the matter expeditiously.

This marks the second major offshore wind project halted by the administration, following a similar suspension of New York's Empire Wind project earlier this year.

The halt has raised concerns within the renewable energy sector, with industry leaders warning that such actions could jeopardize jobs and investments, and undermine progress on national energy priorities.