The U.S. Government Suspends All Offshore Wind Leasing on the Outer Continental Shelf and Reviews Federal Leasing and Permitting Policies

To protect marine ecosystems, support a sustainable energy economy, and safeguard the public interest, the U.S. government will suspend all offshore wind energy leasing on the Outer Continental Shelf under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, effective today on January 21, 2025. This suspension prohibits new leases and renewals, preserving only existing lease rights. Relevant agencies will conduct a comprehensive review of ecological impacts, energy costs, fisheries disruption, navigation safety, and national security, and will submit recommendations to the President on whether to amend or terminate existing leases.

The federal government will also halt approvals and permits for all new onshore and offshore wind energy projects until a detailed policy assessment is completed. Under the leadership of the Secretary of the Interior, relevant agencies will collaborate to examine the effects of wind energy on wildlife, energy costs, and national security. Furthermore, in light of legal and environmental concerns surrounding the Lava Ridge onshore wind project in south-central Idaho, a temporary stop-work order will be imposed, pending a new comprehensive evaluation.

To address broader issues, agencies will assess the environmental and community impacts of decommissioned wind turbines and propose dismantling measures. These policies are expected to significantly impact the wind energy industry, not only restricting the development of new projects but also subjecting existing projects to more stringent scrutiny.

Referemce: whitehouse.gov