The Trump administration is pursuing new measures to stymie onshore and offshore wind.
The Department of the Interior said it is evaluating “whether to stop onshore wind development on some federal lands and halting future offshore wind lease sales”.
In onshore, The Department will consider withdrawing areas onshore with high potential for wind energy development “to ensure compliance with legal requirements for multiple use and sustained yield of public lands”, it said.
“This means balancing energy development with other important uses – such as recreation and grazing – and protecting BLM-managed lands, as envisioned by Congress.
“Additionally, at the end of the last administration, over 3.5 million acres offshore were designated as Wind Energy Areas, which are pre-approved zones where the federal government could auction leases for offshore wind development.
“By terminating these Wind Energy Areas, we are safeguarding our coastal environments and local economies from unchecked development, while ensuring our power grids are not underpinned by unreliable, subsidized energy sources.”
The Department meanwhile said it will strengthen its guidance to ensure more “meaningful consultation regarding offshore wind development, especially with tribes, the fishing industry, and coastal towns”.
“The construction and operation of offshore wind turbines have disproportionate impacts on these stakeholders, from disrupting commercial fishing to driving away tourism,” it claimed.
“By addressing current gaps, this updated guidance will support greater collaboration, transparency, and respect for community and regional priorities.”
This is part of a plan to end what it called “special treatment” for wind projects in line with the country’s “America First energy strategy”.
This will be backed by a special order from Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, which directs his department to identify policies “biased in favour” of wind and solar, and “halting support for energy supply chains controlled by foreign rivals”.
The Department will also study how constructing and operating turbines might affect migratory bird populations.
“These policy changes represent a commonsense approach to energy that puts Americans’ interests first,” said Secretary Doug Burgum.
“Leveling the playing field in permitting supports energy development that’s reliable, affordable, and built to last. We’re also making sure tribes and local communities have a real seat at the table. This move is about responsible energy growth that works for every American.”