The Trump administration has lifted a month-long stop-work order on the $5 billion Empire Wind offshore wind project off New York’s coast, allowing construction to resume. The decision follows negotiations involving New York Governor Kathy Hochul and federal officials, potentially tied to discussions about reviving the previously shelved Constitution Pipeline.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum had initially halted the project on April 16, citing concerns over the Biden administration’s permitting process. The pause threatened approximately 1,500 jobs and cost Equinor, the Norwegian energy company leading the project, an estimated $50 million per week.
Governor Hochul emphasized the project’s importance for job creation and renewable energy, stating her commitment to bipartisan collaboration. Equinor CEO Anders Opedal expressed gratitude for the support from both U.S. and Norwegian officials, highlighting the project’s role in delivering energy while supporting local economies.
The Empire Wind farm, located about 15 miles south of Long Island, is expected to feature 54 turbines and generate 810 megawatts of electricity—enough to power approximately 500,000 homes—when it becomes operational in 2027.
The lifting of the ban may also pave the way for the revival of the Constitution Pipeline, a natural gas project previously blocked by New York state regulators. Interior Secretary Burgum indicated that Governor Hochul’s willingness to consider new gas pipeline capacity influenced the decision to allow the wind project to proceed.
While environmental groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact on marine ecosystems, the administration’s decision underscores a strategic approach to balancing renewable energy development with traditional energy infrastructure. The resumption of the Empire Wind project aligns with broader efforts to diversify the nation’s energy portfolio and stimulate economic growth.
