Trump’s Surprising Critique of Wind Energy in EU Meeting

In an unexpected turn of events, President Donald Trump caught European Union President Ursula von der Leyen off guard with a pointed critique of the wind energy sector. This occurred during a recent discussion surrounding a US/EU Trade Agreement, where Trump launched a three-minute tirade that centered on renewable energy. Von der Leyen, who has a long history in German politics and played a pivotal role during the expansion of Germany’s energy initiatives, seemed taken aback as Trump dismissed various forms of renewable energy that she had supported throughout her career.

Characterizing the wind industry as “a scam job,” Trump stated, “it’s very expensive. And in all its fairness, Germany has tried it and the wind doesn’t work.” But he didn’t stop there. He continued to argue that wind energy requires subsidies, declaring, “energy should not need subsidies.” In his familiar Queens accent, he emphasized that it’s “the most expensive energy” and pointed out, “They are made in China.”

For von der Leyen, who speaks English as a second language, Trump’s blunt and straightforward manner must have disrupted the usual diplomatic decorum. Yet, his message was unmistakable. While the EU chases ambitious climate goals, Trump seems to suggest the United States is taking a different path regarding energy and sustainability.

Under Trump’s guidance and with a Republican majority, efforts are underway to dismantle Biden-era tax credits and incentives for wind and solar projects through executive orders and other administrative means. The recently proposed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is poised to redefine the offshore wind sector, making the future of significant projects, supported by companies like BP and Shell, uncertain without these crucial financial incentives.

On the onshore wind front, the news isn’t as promising, albeit not entirely bleak. A recent report from FTI Consulting revealed that approximately 320 onshore projects, cumulatively capable of generating over 100 GW, are now considered “no longer economically viable.” The report mentioned that the new legislation has made it “pretty difficult, if not impossible, to attract capital,” which could discourage further investment in the sector.

Trump’s critics often argue that his stance against wind energy comes from heavy influences by the fossil fuel industry. However, it’s essential to note that he has been skeptical of the wind sector long before his presidency, rooted in his observations of Germany’s energy policies decades ago. His doubts appeared to crystallize around the observed decline of industrial power in places like Germany and the UK over the past twenty to thirty years.

While Trump has frequently claimed that wind energy is one of the cheapest power sources, rising electricity costs have proven to be a significant concern. If electricity remains unaffordable, industries will likely relocate to countries with lower energy expenses, potentially exacerbating trade issues.

The UK currently faces the highest industrial energy costs globally, and Germany is not far behind. Trump’s perspective on energy issues seemingly connects these economic challenges, reflecting a more significant trend in global industrial dynamics.

Having witnessed the policies of both the Obama and Biden administrations, Trump aims to not only restore but also enhance America’s industrial strength, which he believes has waned over the last four decades due to globalization. He recognizes that reversing the energy and climate policies of past Democratic leaders is a crucial step in this process.

This perspective starkly contrasts with the views of central planners like von der Leyen, which likely contributed to her noticeable reaction during Trump’s remarks about the wind industry.