The suspension is not anticipated to affect existing US offshore wind projects. Credit: Buonnaventura/Shutterstock.

President Donald Trump has ordered a temporary suspension of new federal leases for offshore wind energy projects, pending a comprehensive environmental and economic review.

The White House issued an executive action to halt offshore wind leasing on the US outer continental shelf, stating concerns over aesthetics, costs and wildlife impact. 

President Trump was quoted by Reuters as saying: “We’re not going to do the wind thing. Big, ugly windmills. They ruin your neighbourhood”.  

He added: “They’re the most expensive form of energy that you can have, by far. And they kill your birds and they ruin your beautiful landscapes.” 

The suspension is not anticipated to affect existing US offshore wind projects currently being developed by companies such as Orsted, Avangrid, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Dominion. 

Industry representatives have expressed alarm over the decision, pointing out that it contradicts Trump’s earlier commitment to maximising national energy production.  

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The move marks a significant shift from his first presidential term, during which his administration actively encouraged offshore wind development. 

Offshore wind advocacy group Turn Forward executive director Hillary Bright said: “A national energy emergency requires us to unleash all necessary sources of American energy – including offshore wind”.  

In stark contrast to Trump’s current stance, former US President Joe Biden viewed wind power as a crucial component in his plan to decarbonise the US power sector and combat climate change.  

Under Biden’s administration, multiple auctions were held to foster the growth of significant new projects. 

The executive order comes amid broader efforts by Trump to bolster US oil and gas output.  

He has also announced plans to withdraw the country from the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, designed to address global warming challenges.