News Summary
The Trump administration has issued a stop-work order for the Revolution Wind project off Rhode Island, which is largely completed. Citing national security concerns, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has halted the construction of this multi-billion-dollar initiative, disrupting plans to supply electricity to over 350,000 homes. The order follows a similar halt on the Empire Wind project and has escalated tensions between federal and local officials, particularly amidst growing advocacy for renewable energy in the region.
Providence, Rhode Island – The Trump administration has issued a stop-work order for the Revolution Wind project off the coast of Rhode Island, which is currently about 80% complete. The order was enacted on August 22 and has halted the construction of the multi-billion-dollar initiative that aims to provide electricity to over 350,000 homes. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) cited national security concerns as the reason for this unexpected disruption, indicating that construction could only resume after a thorough review is conducted.
The Revolution Wind project, a collaboration between Ørsted and Skyborn Renewables, has seen the installation of 45 out of the planned 65 wind turbines. However, the recent stop-work order follows a similar order for the Empire Wind project, signaling a broader strategy by the Trump administration to restrict offshore wind development.
In addition to the construction halt, the administration also withdrew an $11 million grant that was intended to bolster Rhode Island’s wind energy sector, escalating tensions between federal authorities and local officials, especially those advocating for renewable energy. Reports have indicated that the White House is orchestrating efforts to obstruct the offshore wind industry, aligning with President Trump’s longstanding opposition to wind energy initiatives.
Several key figures in Washington, including Susie Wiles and Stephen Miller, are reportedly leading the initiative against renewable energy projects. Furthermore, Robert F. Kennedy, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, expressed concerns regarding offshore wind farms, citing potential environmental impacts.
In response to the halt of the Revolution Wind project, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee plans to meet with President Trump to discuss the potential ramifications for the local economy and job market. Meanwhile, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, in collaboration with McKee, has vowed to explore legal avenues to reverse the Trump administration’s directive. State Attorney General Peter Neronha has also warned that the halt could significantly hinder Rhode Island’s climate objectives, which are backed by the state’s Act on Climate law.
Prior to the stop-work order, the Revolution Wind project had cleared extensive federal and state reviews, raising questions regarding the legality and authority surrounding the halt. The order has been characterized by state officials as politically motivated and lacking sufficient justification.
The environmental non-profit organization Green Oceans praised the halt on ecological grounds, highlighting the administration’s concerns about the fragile marine environment. Meanwhile, Ørsted is currently assessing the financial implications of the order, which could result in losses exceeding $1 billion.
The Revolution Wind project is estimated to have an overall investment of around $5 billion and is critical to the climate and energy goals established by both Rhode Island and Connecticut. With wind power contributing approximately 10% of the national electricity grid, it serves as the largest renewable energy source in the United States.
The construction halt not only poses significant challenges for environmental advocates but also endangers employment and economic benefits for local unions and communities. State officials and advocates expect legal actions to be taken against the administration, underscoring the contentious nature of the issue.
Overall, the reaction to the stop-work order illustrates the deepening divide between the Trump administration’s energy policies and the renewable energy initiatives championed by state officials and environmental advocates. The future of the Revolution Wind project hangs in the balance as stakeholders consider their next steps amidst this federal action.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Trump Administration Cancels Funding for Offshore Wind Projects
Revolution Wind Project Halted by Trump Administration
Federal Government Halts Rhode Island Wind Project Construction
Orsted Faces Financial Struggles Amid Wind Project Halt
Construction Halted on Rhode Island’s Revolution Wind Project
Trump Administration Halts Revolution Wind Project in Rhode Island
Federal Funding Cuts Impact Massachusetts Offshore Wind Projects
Rhode Island’s Revolution Wind Project Halted Amid Concerns
Rhode Island Halts Construction on Offshore Wind Project
Trump Administration Halts Rhode Island’s Revolution Wind Project
Additional Resources
- AP News: Trump Halts Offshore Wind Project
- Wikipedia: Offshore Wind Power
- The Guardian: Wind Farm in Rhode Island and Connecticut
- Google Search: Trump offshore wind energy
- ABC News: Trump Halts New England Offshore Wind Project
- Google Scholar: Trump renewable energy
- The Hill: Trump Halts Rhode Island Wind Energy Project
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Trump Administration Energy Policy
- New York Times: Trump Administration Offshore Wind
- Google News: Revolution Wind project
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.
