Clean energy bans rise across U.S. under Trump administration

A USA TODAY analysis found about 24% of U.S. counties now restrict large-scale wind or solar projects, and the article reports the Trump administration has tightened permitting and limited approvals since January 2025.

Communities across the United States are debating whether wind and solar farms bring economic benefits or change local landscapes. USA TODAY reports that at least 24% of U.S. counties now restrict new large-scale wind or solar projects. The article describes examples where renewables provided tax revenue, lease payments and funding for schools and roads, and also shows residents and officials raising aesthetic and land-use concerns. It also reports that since January 2025 the Trump administration has used regulatory and legislative measures to slow or block some wind and solar projects, particularly on federal lands. Key points: - USA TODAY analysis finds at least 24% of U.S. counties have adopted limits on new large-scale wind or solar projects. - The article reports the Trump administration has tightened permitting and taken steps since January 2025 that have slowed approvals for some renewable projects, especially on federal land. - Local reporting cites specific examples of economic gains from projects (including county tax revenue and school funding) alongside residents' objections based on aesthetics, land use and farming concerns. - The story notes broader context: electricity demand is expected to grow and that, according to the reporting, wind and solar projects typically take about a year to 18 months to build, a shorter timeline than some alternatives. Summary: These developments affect local budgets, land use and the pace of new electricity supply. How restrictions and federal actions will shape future project locations and timelines is undetermined at this time.