Freeze on offshore wind projects puts states' climate goals at risk
Donald Trump’s executive order halting offshore wind approvals has stalled key projects on the East Coast, threatening state climate targets and billions in clean energy investments.
Jake Spring reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Trump’s executive order has frozen offshore wind projects, delaying developments in states like New York and New Jersey, which rely on them to meet renewable energy goals.
- The freeze has already caused major companies, including Shell and Equinor, to pull back on U.S. wind investments, while financial uncertainty deters further development.
- Without offshore wind, states will burn more natural gas, making it harder for the U.S. to cut greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030 as planned.
Key quote:
“There are states that won’t be able to meet those goals or even reach their short-term demand without offshore wind.”
— Stephanie Francoeur, spokeswoman for the Oceantic Network
Why this matters:
Offshore wind is a critical part of the U.S. plan to cut emissions, especially in states with ambitious climate goals. The stalled projects could force states to rely more on fossil fuels, driving up carbon emissions at a time when scientists warn urgent action is needed. The uncertainty also puts billions in clean energy investments and thousands of jobs at risk, affecting not just coastal states but manufacturing hubs in places like Louisiana and Texas.
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