Recent actions by President Donald Trump’s administration have introduced significant challenges to the United States’ offshore wind industry, threatening economic growth, job creation and energy security.
On his first day back in office, Trump signed an executive order declaring a national energy emergency, which included a temporary halt on offshore wind lease sales and a pause on approvals, permits and loans for both onshore and offshore wind projects. This move has cast uncertainty over the future of renewable energy initiatives across the country.
The repercussions of this policy shift are already evident. For instance, SouthCoast Wind, a major offshore wind developer, announced an impairment potentially delaying its project off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, directly attributing the setback to the administration’s recent actions. Similarly, global energy companies such as Shell PLC and TotalEnergies SE have withdrawn from U.S. offshore wind initiatives, citing the uncertain regulatory environment.
This policy not only jeopardizes current projects but also threatens the broader economic benefits associated with the offshore wind industry. In Rhode Island alone, the sector has the potential to generate 3,000 megawatts of new energy by 2040, creating over 33,000 direct jobs in the process. These are union jobs with family-supporting wages and benefits, ensuring long-term career advancement, especially for workers transitioning from legacy energy industries.
The economic ripple effects of offshore wind are undeniable. Rhode Island’s Block Island Wind Farm, the nation’s first offshore wind project, boosted activity at the Port of Providence, creating demand for skilled workers in assembly, logistics and maritime operations. Similarly, Massachusetts’ New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal was purpose-built to support offshore wind projects, attracting investment and creating jobs in construction, engineering and port operations. Future projects, like Vineyard Wind 1, are driving even more growth, with commitments to manufacture turbine components locally and support New England-based supply chains.
Moreover, offshore wind bolsters regional manufacturing. American companies such as General Electric Co. are partnering with local businesses to produce critical components such as turbine nacelles and foundations. Ports such as Quonset in Rhode Island have become hubs of activity, supporting logistics and fabrication work vital to the industry. Additionally, these projects are creating union-backed training programs, such as those supported by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, ensuring that local workers have access to these well-paying, stable jobs.
Opponents of offshore wind often argue that turbines harm marine life, particularly whales. Yet, these claims lack scientific proof. Peer-reviewed studies have found no evidence linking offshore wind development to harm for marine mammals. The real threats to ocean ecosystems come from rising water temperatures, pollution and ship traffic – all of which offshore wind helps mitigate by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting domestic energy.
Failing to expand offshore wind also carries immense risks. Rhode Island, with its 400 miles of coastline, is on the front lines of the climate crisis. Rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events threaten our communities and critical infrastructure. The state has committed to bold climate action through its Act on Climate legislation, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. Offshore wind is an essential part of meeting these goals, as it reduces harmful emissions and strengthens energy resilience.
The Trump administration’s recent actions undermine these efforts, prioritizing fossil fuel interests over sustainable energy solutions. This approach not only hampers progress toward energy independence but also risks ceding the burgeoning renewable energy market to global competitors.
Offshore wind is more than a clean energy solution. It’s a lifeline for New England’s economy, a critical pillar to American energy independence and a pathway to a more resilient future. We urge President Trump to reconsider this harmful policy and support the continued success of American offshore wind. The country’s long-term prosperity and security depend on it.
Patrick Crowley is president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO.
