Trump Plans Executive Order to Halt Offshore Wind Projects

President-elect Donald Trump has directed New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew to draft an executive order aimed at halting offshore wind energy projects along the East Coast, from Rhode Island to Virginia. This move aligns with Trump's campaign promise to dismantle the offshore wind industry in favor of boosting fossil fuel production, which he claims will lead to cheaper energy costs for the U.S. Van Drew has prepared a draft order that would pause offshore wind development for six months, allowing the incoming interior secretary, Doug Burgum, to review existing leases and permits. Concerns raised by Van Drew include potential negative impacts on the fishing industry and tourism, as well as the reliance on foreign companies for renewable energy projects. Burgum, who has experience with wind power from his time in North Dakota, acknowledged the importance of reliable energy sources, indicating a need to assess ongoing projects critically. The Biden administration has been advocating for offshore wind as part of efforts to combat climate change, setting ambitious targets for renewable energy generation by 2030 and 2035.