Halted Ørsted Wind Project in the USA
Halted Ørsted Wind Project in the USA: A Major Renewable Energy Setback
The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued a stop-work order halting construction of the Revolution Wind offshore project, developed by Danish energy giant Ørsted, off the coasts of Rhode Island and Connecticut.
The $1.5-billion project, approximately 80 percent complete, had already seen 45 of 65 turbines installed. It was expected to power more than 350,000 homes across the two states by early next year.
The administration cited unspecified national security concerns, as well as the need to avoid interference with the United States' exclusive economic zones, high seas, and territorial waters, as the basis for the abrupt order.
Governors of both states—including Rhode Island’s Dan McKee and Connecticut’s Ned Lamont—vehemently condemned the decision, vowing to pursue every available legal avenue to overturn it .
Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy denounced the move as politically motivated and tied to environmental regressions.
For Ørsted, the halt represents more than just a construction freeze: it's a severe financial blow. The project was a cornerstone of the company’s U.S. strategy and was central to its ongoing efforts to shore up capital through a $9.4-billion emergency rights issue. With revenues from Revolution Wind now stalled, Ørsted is evaluating its options and considering legal action.
Environmental advocates and industry groups have warned that this decision imperils America’s clean energy future at a time when rapid deployment of renewables is critical to meet climate goals.
This halt to Revolution Wind underscores the fragility of the U.S. offshore wind industry amid shifting political winds and raises serious concerns over the nation's ability to meet ambitious clean energy targets.
