North America | May 9, 2025

Trump sued by 17 states for blocking wind projects

Seventeen states have sued Trump over halted wind permits, citing threats to jobs, clean energy progress, and billions in infrastructure investment.

 

trump and turbines_Shutterstock_2607144091

Image for illustrative purposes

USA: Seventeen U.S. states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging its freeze on permits for wind power projects. The states argue that the move threatens thousands of jobs, delays clean energy progress, and puts billions of dollars in investment at risk.

New York Attorney General Letitia James, one of the lead plaintiffs, described the administration’s actions as a direct attack on one of the nation’s fastest-growing energy sectors. “This is undermining clean, affordable energy while endangering our economy and planet,” she stated.

The freeze was enacted through a January 20 executive order by President Trump, requiring all federal agencies to halt the issuance of new wind energy permits and review existing ones. It also instructed officials to consider canceling or altering current leases, heightening uncertainty in the industry.

Among the halted initiatives is the Empire Wind project near Long Island, which would have powered roughly 500,000 homes. Despite already holding the necessary approvals, the project was stopped due to claims of rushed review under the previous administration.

The lawsuit, filed in Massachusetts federal court, names the Environmental Protection Agency, Interior Department, and other agencies. It seeks to block enforcement of the executive order and label it unlawful.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned that the policy could derail clean energy goals and drive up energy costs. Meanwhile, the Interior Department insists it is acting with fiscal responsibility.

The legal challenge adds further tension to Trump’s controversial energy agenda.

Source: The New York Times