Trump's offshore wind project freeze draws lawsuits from states and developers

The administration suspended work for at least 90 days on five East Coast offshore wind projects citing national security concerns, and several developers plus the states of Connecticut and Rhode Island have filed federal lawsuits seeking to block the pause.

The federal government announced on Dec. 22 that it would suspend leases and pause construction for at least 90 days on five large offshore wind projects off the East Coast, citing national security concerns without providing specifics. Developers and affected states have filed lawsuits in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., asking judges to block or vacate the pause. The article mentions Equinor and Orsted among the companies that have brought civil suits, and that Connecticut and Rhode Island have sought a preliminary injunction to let work continue on one project. Key points: - The Interior Department ordered a 90-day suspension of work on five projects, stating national security and maritime readiness concerns but not releasing detailed evidence. - Developers and owners, including filings by Equinor (Empire Wind) and Orsted (Sunrise Wind and related ventures), have sued to overturn or block the suspension. - Connecticut and Rhode Island have asked a federal court for a preliminary injunction to allow work on Revolution Wind to continue. - Some plaintiffs have requested expedited consideration, saying construction schedules and project financing face immediate risk. Summary: The pause has placed several large offshore wind projects into active legal dispute and has interrupted construction activities tied to tightly scheduled logistics. Courts in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia will consider the filings, including requests for preliminary injunctions and expedited review. Undetermined at this time.