Trump Administration Orders Comprehensive Review of Offshore Wind Regulations, Pauses New Approvals

The Department of the Interior on Aug. 7 initiated a full review of offshore wind energy regulations to ensure they align with the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and the nation’s current energy priorities under the Trump administration. The review will focus on the Renewable Energy Modernization Rule, financial assurance requirements, and decommissioning cost estimates for offshore wind projects, with the stated aim of avoiding preferential treatment for what the administration deems “unreliable, foreign-controlled energy” in favor of “dependable, American-made” sources.

The effort is being led by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement. It involves potential updates to regulations under 30 CFR parts 585, 586, and 285. The action is guided by Secretary’s Order 3437, which calls for ending favoritism toward foreign-controlled energy in federal decision-making; Secretary’s Order 3438, focused on managing federal energy resources and environmental protection; and a presidential memorandum on wind energy signed on January 20, 2025. It also aligns with Executive Order 14315, directing agencies to identify and eliminate bias toward unreliable energy sources.

As part of the review process, the department has suspended all new approvals for offshore wind projects, including leases, permits, rights-of-way, and loans. This pause follows the president’s directive for a comprehensive assessment of offshore wind’s environmental, economic, and national security impacts. In line with this policy shift, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management rescinded all Designated Wind Energy Areas on the Outer Continental Shelf in July, and on Aug. 5, removed the requirement to publish and periodically update a five-year offshore wind lease sale schedule.

According to the department, these actions are intended to recalibrate federal oversight of offshore energy development to protect U.S. interests. The administration emphasizes that future decisions will prioritize responsible energy production, environmental safeguards, and long-term economic stability. The review represents a significant policy reversal from prior federal support for offshore wind and signals heightened scrutiny for projects in the sector, potentially impacting timelines, investment strategies, and industry planning in the coming years.