News Summary
The Trump administration has issued a stop work order on the nearly completed Revolution Wind project off Rhode Island, citing national security concerns. This decision affects the installation of turbines that were set to provide renewable energy to around 350,000 homes in Rhode Island and Connecticut. Local officials have criticized the halt, warning it could threaten jobs and undermine state energy goals. Orsted, the developer, is reviewing financial implications, while federal authorities face pressure to reverse the decision amid ongoing concerns about the future of renewable energy initiatives.
Providence, Rhode Island – The Trump administration has ordered a halt to all construction on the nearly completed Revolution Wind project located off the coast of Rhode Island, citing “national security interests.” This unexpected decision impacts a project that is approximately 80% complete, with 45 out of 65 turbines already installed by Danish wind farm developer Orsted. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued the stop work order following a federal review.
The Revolution Wind project, situated about 15 miles off the Rhode Island coast, is designed to generate renewable energy for approximately 350,000 homes across Rhode Island and Connecticut. Initially approved by BOEM in August 2023, the project was expected to be completed in the latter half of 2026, providing energy at a competitive rate of 9.8 cents per kilowatt-hour.
The decision has drawn significant criticism from local officials, including Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, who claims it undermines jobs and the state’s energy initiatives. A coalition of Democratic governors, lawmakers, and union representatives in both Rhode Island and Connecticut are now urging the federal government to reverse this halt on construction, emphasizing its potential impact on regional energy goals and employment.
According to North America’s Building Trades Unions, this construction stoppage affects around 1,000 labor union members who were actively working on the project. The temporary cessation of work may not only threaten jobs but also lead to increased electricity prices in the region, as well as hinder efforts to meet state climate objectives.
The Revolution Wind project is poised to be the first large offshore wind farm for Rhode Island and Connecticut, which is crucial for the transition toward renewable energy. Rhode Island is already home to the operational Block Island Wind Farm, which consists of five turbines. The completion of the Revolution Wind project was being closely monitored following extensive federal and state reviews that led to its initial approval.
Furthermore, BOEM is reportedly considering the cancellation of its approval for another wind farm located off the Maryland coast, which adds to concerns regarding the regulatory climate for renewable energy projects under the current administration.
In reaction to the halt, Orsted is reviewing the financial implications and contemplating potential legal actions regarding the federal order. U.S. Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island has voiced skepticism over the administration’s national security claims, pointing out that the Department of Defense had been involved in the project review process prior to the construction halt.
President Trump has a history of prioritizing fossil fuels over renewable energy, often labeling such projects as ineffective or a “scam.” His stance could further complicate the future of renewable energy initiatives across the United States as states like Rhode Island and Connecticut strive to meet their clean energy targets while remaining economically viable.
The Revolution Wind project’s current status has sparked debates about the balance between national security and the urgent need for advancing renewable energy and transitioning away from fossil fuels. As developments progress, stakeholders from different sectors will be closely gauging potential outcomes and strategies for moving forward.
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Additional Resources
- GoLocalProv
- Wikipedia: Renewable Energy
- ABC6
- Google Search: Revolution Wind project
- AP News
- Google Scholar: Offshore Wind Energy Projects
- CBS News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Trump Administration Energy Policy
- ABC News
- Google News: Offshore Wind Energy Rhode Island
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.
