Burgum Cancels Offshore Wind Areas, Signaling End of U.S. Offshore Wind Expansion

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has taken a decisive step by revoking all designated Wind Energy Areas on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf, delivering a significant setback to the offshore wind sector. This action aligns with the Trump administration's longstanding efforts to curtail offshore wind development in the United States. The decision marks the latest move in a series of policy shifts aimed at ending Biden-era initiatives promoting offshore wind, especially amidst controversies involving marine life and fishing industries. Critics have raised concerns over construction activities near whale migration routes and commercial fishing zones, citing increased marine mammal casualties and environmental hazards, such as debris from turbine failures washing ashore. Despite industry and regulatory denials, these incidents have damaged the reputation of offshore wind projects, leading to investigations and temporary halts. Since President Biden took office, efforts to accelerate permitting have faced mounting opposition, culminating in legislative measures to phase out subsidies and tax benefits. Burgum’s recent policy update abolishes Biden-era preferences for wind projects on fed...