September 22, 2025

Trump Administration Halts Progress on Revolution Wind Project

News Summary

The Trump administration has paused the multibillion-dollar Revolution Wind project, a key offshore wind farm for Rhode Island, citing national security reviews. This decision raises concerns among local leaders regarding its impact on jobs and energy supplies amid an ongoing energy crisis. The project, nearly 80% completed, is crucial for generating power for 350,000 homes and supporting Rhode Island’s renewable energy goals. Governor Dan McKee labeled the halt an ‘attack on Rhode Islanders,’ calling for urgent discussions to address the implications of this unexpected stop-work order.

Providence, Rhode Island – The Trump administration has halted progress on the multibillion-dollar Revolution Wind project, a significant offshore wind farm that is expected to play a crucial role in Rhode Island’s energy future. The decision comes amidst an ongoing energy crisis in the state, raising concerns among local politicians and advocates about job losses and potential impacts on families.

Governor Dan McKee expressed his deep concern after learning about the stop-work order issued on August 25, 2025, stating that the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management cited the need to review national security interests and prevent interference in economic zones as the reason for the halt. This project, which has contracts to supply power to Rhode Island and Connecticut, has reportedly achieved 80% completion, with 67 monopile foundations already installed in the Atlantic Ocean.

Governor McKee labeled the halt as an “attack on Rhode Islanders,” emphasizing its potential detrimental effects on jobs, energy supplies, and families dependent on this project. He called for immediate discussions with Doug Burgum, the secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, to address this concerning situation. Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont echoed McKee’s worries, highlighting a growing bipartisan concern regarding the future of renewable energy in the region.

Project Importance

The Revolution Wind project is projected to generate 20% of Rhode Island’s annual electricity needs and is expected to deliver power to 350,000 homes at a competitive rate, aiming to reduce energy costs for families. If successful, it will provide power at a fixed price of 9.8 cents per kilowatt-hour, notably lower than the current market rates. This project represents a significant investment in renewable energy, having deeply matured from efforts nearly two decades long, and is integral for Rhode Island’s ambitions to become an offshore wind hub.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The halt poses a substantial threat to approximately 1,000 jobs in Rhode Island and supports additional jobs across states like Texas and Louisiana. The revolution wind project has already led to substantial local investments, including $125 million in the Port of Providence. Union representatives have voiced frustration, as many workers are now left in uncertainty regarding their futures and ongoing projects.

Moreover, the Revolution Wind project is deemed critical for Rhode Island’s climate goals, as it is expected to significantly help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has remarked that without this project, achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 would become increasingly challenging and costly due to the necessity of finding alternative renewable energy sources.

Broader Energy Context

Energy bills in Rhode Island have been steadily rising, with current average residential electricity rates at 28.7 cents per kilowatt-hour, among the highest in the U.S. This situation is exacerbated by rising heating degree days indicating increased energy demand during winter months. New England, particularly Rhode Island, relies heavily on natural gas for more than half of its power generation, which has contributed to price spikes during colder weather. Discussions are underway in the Rhode Island General Assembly to regulate energy costs and support customers struggling with high bills.

The Revolution Wind project is not only crucial for the economic landscape of Rhode Island but also paramount in the ongoing transition towards sustainable energy solutions. As momentum builds around renewable energy goals, the recent halt has ignited discussions about political motivations behind such decisions, particularly regarding the interests of fossil fuel industries over renewable energy advancements.

As the state continues to grapple with energy challenges, the future of the Revolution Wind project remains uncertain, leaving Rhode Islanders asking what steps will be taken to ensure their energy needs are met in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Connecticut and Rhode Island Challenge Trump Administration on Revolution Wind Project
Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved Residents in North Kingstown
Rhode Island and Connecticut Sue Trump Administration Over Wind Project
Providence Community in Mourning After the Loss of Three Beloved Residents
Rehoboth Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Figures
Providence Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Residents
Trump Administration Halts Rhode Island’s Revolution Wind Project
New England Prepares for a Frigid Winter with Heavy Snow
Candidates Emerge for Providence Ward 2 City Council Seat
Rhode Island Energy Proposes Winter Electric Rate Increase

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER

PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER

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