Ørsted and Skyborn Renewables Challenge US Government Over Offshore Wind Project Suspension
Ørsted and Skyborn Renewables have filed a legal challenge seeking an injunction against the White House's decision on 22 December to suspend the Revolution Wind lease and halt offshore wind construction.
The Revolution Wind project is a $5 billion offshore wind development located on the US northeast coast. Construction, which was about 90% complete with 58 of 65 turbines installed and foundations in place, was halted by the Interior Department over unspecified national security concerns. The stop-work order also affected five other large offshore wind projects currently under construction.
Revolution Wind had secured all necessary federal and state permits in 2023 after more than nine years of reviews, and was expected to deliver power to US homes in 2026.
Ørsted and Skyborn Renewables argue that the suspension is unlawful and that litigation is necessary to protect the project's rights and to avoid substantial harm if the order remains in effect.
The White House action reflects a broader administration stance opposing offshore wind and renewable energy developments, with former President Trump having opposed wind turbines, citing them as unattractive and costly.
Following the December 22 stop-work order, Ørsted shares fell around 12%, before rising nearly 4% upon news of the court filing. The company's market value had reached record lows.
The Interior Department cited national security concerns as the reason for suspending five large offshore wind projects in US waters but did not disclose specifics.
