What's happened
A federal judge has allowed two major offshore wind projects, Revolution Wind and Empire Wind, to resume construction after legal challenges from the Biden administration's suspension over national security concerns. The rulings highlight ongoing legal and political battles over offshore renewable energy development in the US.
What's behind the headline?
The recent court rulings mark a significant shift in the US offshore wind landscape. The judge's decision to allow the projects to proceed underscores the legal strength of the industry’s permitting process and the potential overreach of the Trump-era suspension. The administration’s reliance on classified information to justify halts appears insufficient, risking further delays and legal setbacks. This legal victory could accelerate offshore wind development, aligning the US more closely with global trends where countries like China lead in renewable energy investments. The broader political context suggests ongoing tensions between energy development and national security narratives, which will likely continue to influence policy and project timelines. The industry’s resilience and the courts’ support indicate that offshore wind will remain a key part of the US energy transition, despite political headwinds.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that a federal judge has permitted Equinor's Empire Wind project to resume, emphasizing the project's critical status and the lack of detailed national security concerns from officials. The Guardian highlights the legal setback for the Trump administration, with Judge Royce Lamberth ruling that the suspension was 'arbitrary and capricious,' and questioning the validity of classified information used to justify the pause. The New York Times provides context on the broader legal battles, noting that the decision is a temporary victory for the industry and that the Biden administration’s permits are being challenged in court, reflecting a wider political struggle over offshore wind development in the US.
How we got here
The US government paused five offshore wind projects in December 2025, citing national security concerns without detailed explanations. These projects, including Revolution Wind and Empire Wind, had received permits under the Biden administration. Developers and states challenged the suspension in court, arguing it violated legal procedures and lacked transparency. The legal disputes are part of broader political conflicts over offshore wind energy, with former President Trump’s administration previously opposing such projects, citing aesthetic and cost concerns.
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Royce Charles Lamberth /’læmb-ərth/ is a senior judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, who formerly served as its chief judge.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.