A US court has struck down key a key element of President Donald Trump’s sector-wide attack on permitting for new solar and wind projects in the US.
US District Judge Denise Casper on Tuesday issued a preliminary injunction blocking the enactment of a day one Trump memo directing federal agencies to suspend issuing all new permits, leases and other authorizations needed to develop and operate wind energy projects, both onshore and offshore.
Casper wrote in granting the preliminary injunction that the memo ordering the sweeping permitting review is “arbitrary and capricious” and is likely to fall foul of the Administrative Procedures Act.
The challenge to the Trump memo was brought by Renew Northeast and eight other regional industry associations.
The memo, alongside several subsequent orders and directions to key federal agencies, froze the permitting process for several US offshore wind projects as well as onshore wind and solar projects on federal land.
Oceantic Network CEO Liz Burdock said following the injunction: “Today’s ruling is another decisive affirmation that the current administration’s blanket actions against renewable energy are unlawful – and another major victory for American workers, American businesses, and our nation’s energy future.
“Offshore wind continues to demonstrate its critical role in lowering energy costs, strengthening grid reliability, and unlocking billions in new investments in American steelmaking and shipbuilding.”
She added: “We commend Renew Northeast and all plaintiffs, including Oceantic members, who stepped forward to defend American businesses, energy consumers, and the integrity of our energy permitting process.”