Washington, D.C. - January 20, 2025 - President Donald Trump today signed a memorandum temporarily withdrawing all areas of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from offshore wind leasing and initiating a comprehensive review of the federal government's wind project leasing and permitting practices.
Under this order, effective from January 21, 2025, no new leasing for wind energy on the OCS will be considered until further notice. This action does not affect existing leases, but it does mandate a detailed review of their ecological, economic, and environmental implications. The Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with other federal agencies, will assess the impacts of both onshore and offshore wind projects on wildlife, energy costs, and the overall viability of the wind industry, considering factors such as navigational safety, transportation, national security, and marine life.
Additionally, the memorandum calls for a pause in issuing new approvals, permits, or loans related to wind projects while this assessment is underway. It specifically addresses concerns regarding the Lava Ridge Wind Project by placing a temporary moratorium on associated activities pending a new analysis of its environmental and community impacts.
President Trump emphasized that this executive action aligns with the administration's commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources, aiming to ensure that energy development does not compromise marine ecosystems, fishing industries, or energy affordability.
The full text of the memorandum is available for review and will be published in the Federal Register. The administration will keep the public informed as the review progresses and decisions are made regarding future wind energy projects on federal lands and waters.