Trump Administration Halts Maryland Offshore Wind Project
The Trump administration is taking steps to stop the development of a significant offshore wind farm along the coast of Maryland, according to recent court documents. On Friday, Attorney General Pam Bondy filed a motion to withdraw federal approval for the project, which had been a key initiative under the Biden administration.
Additionally, an order was issued to suspend operations on Connecticut’s large offshore wind farms as the Trump administration continues to tighten regulations on renewable energy projects, in contrast to the more lenient policies of the Biden era.
“Interior will voluntarily remand and vacate approval of the Construction and Operations Plan (COP) for the Maryland Offshore Wind Project,” the court documents state. This move comes amid wider efforts to reassess energy policies established during Biden’s term.
Originally, the Maryland Offshore Wind Project was approved to construct up to 114 wind turbines, aiming for completion by July 2024 under Biden’s leadership. However, the Department of the Interior has recently halted wind developments in federal waters off Connecticut, marking a shift in direction for the wind industry.
The Biden administration has been pushing for initiatives centered on green energy, while the Trump administration is leaning towards traditional energy sources, reversing federal support for wind and solar power. Billions have been allocated to renewable resources during Biden’s presidency, but this has led to criticisms regarding impacts on the coal, oil, and gas sectors.
“For over 30 years, America has been subjected to costly and unreliable wind projects,” stated Doug Burgum, the DOI secretary. “Under President Donald Trump, we are focusing on dependable energy sources that genuinely support electrical grids.” This suggests a decisive shift back to more conventional power sources.
In a recently signed executive order, Trump directed regulatory changes to eliminate preferences for wind and solar projects, opposing Biden’s approach and labeling it as “Green’s new scam.” He asserts that reliance on these technologies results in increased energy costs.
Meanwhile, Maryland has announced eligibility for nearly $5 million in federal funding to bolster its offshore wind industry initiatives, despite setbacks with some projects being cancelled. It appears that Maryland is still committed to developing various offshore wind farms.
The Department of the Interior has not provided any comments regarding the situation.
