Trump Administration Halts Construction of Rhode Island Wind Farm, Causes Uncertainty for Jobs and Renewable Energy Goals

Strategic Insights -

Rhode Island and Connecticut are facing a setback in their efforts to transition to renewable energy, as the Trump administration's decision to halt construction of the Revolution Wind farm off the coast of New England has left the project in limbo. The wind farm, developed by Danish energy company Orsted, was nearly complete, with 80% of the work done, including the installation of underwater foundations and 45 out of 65 turbines. However, the administration's move has sparked outrage from state officials, union workers, and residents, who are worried about the impact on jobs, electricity prices, and the region's climate goals.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Trump administration has halted construction of the Revolution Wind farm, citing national security concerns, although the specific reasons for the halt are unclear.
  • The wind farm, which was 80% complete, is expected to be Rhode Island and Connecticut's first large offshore wind farm, capable of powering over 350,000 homes.
  • The project's developers, Orsted, are evaluating the financial impact of stopping construction and considering legal proceedings.
  • State officials, union workers, and residents are calling on the administration to reverse its decision, saying it is an attack on jobs, energy, and families' ability to pay bills.
  • The Trump administration has previously stopped work on other offshore wind projects, including the New York offshore wind project.
  • Revolution Wind was expected to provide power at a rate of 9.8 cents per kilowatt-hour, locked in for 20 years, making it cheaper than the average cost of electricity in New England.
  • Rhode Island is already home to the five-turbine Block Island Wind Farm, and the state is committed to increasing its use of renewable energy.

Statistics:

  • 80% of the Revolution Wind farm project is complete, including the underwater foundations and 45 out of 65 turbines installed.
  • The project is expected to power over 350,000 homes.
  • The cost of electricity from Revolution Wind is expected to be 9.8 cents per kilowatt-hour, locked in for 20 years.
  • The average cost of electricity in New England is higher than the rate offered by Revolution Wind.
  • 1,000 union workers who were working on the project are now facing uncertainty about their jobs.
  • The wind farm is located over 15 miles south of the Rhode Island coast and 32 miles southeast of the Connecticut coast.

Sources:

  • The Associated Press: "Trump administration halts offshore wind project in New England" (September 8, 2025)
  • Associated Press writer Isabella O'Malley in Philadelphia contributed to this report.
  • The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations.