Offshore Wind Moves Forward Despite Political Posturing

 

By Capt. Paul Eidman

David Wojick’s recent article* claims that offshore wind developers are ignoring President Trump’s Executive Order (EO) aimed at reviewing existing wind energy leases. However, this claim misrepresents both the legal and economic realities of offshore wind development in the United States. The truth is that these projects are proceeding not out of defiance, but because they are operating within legally binding contracts that an executive order alone cannot simply erase.

Executive Orders Cannot Unilaterally Overturn Offshore Wind Leases

Wojick suggests that offshore wind companies are disregarding the President’s directive, but this is a misunderstanding of how federal leases and contracts work. The EO does not automatically revoke offshore wind leases; it only initiates a review process. The legal standard for canceling these leases is high, and any attempt to do so would require substantial justification that does not exist.

These projects have already undergone years of environmental review, regulatory scrutiny, and federal permitting. The companies involved are continuing construction because they understand that contracts signed in good faith cannot be terminated without significant legal and financial consequences.

Halting Offshore Wind Would Be a Costly Mistake

If the administration were to attempt a blanket termination of these leases, it would invite lawsuits that could cost taxpayers billions. International energy companies have invested heavily in these projects, and many have legal protections under trade agreements that would allow them to seek damages for wrongful termination.

Beyond legal costs, canceling offshore wind leases would also have serious economic repercussions. The offshore wind industry is already generating thousands of American jobs in manufacturing, construction, and maintenance. 

Billions of dollars have been committed to developing port infrastructure, supply chains, and workforce training programs. 

Abruptly derailing this progress would harm not only investors but also American workers and communities that are benefiting from this growing industry.

Offshore Wind is Critical for America’s Energy Future

Energy security depends on a diverse and resilient energy mix. Offshore wind provides a large-scale, reliable source of clean electricity that complements other energy sources, including nuclear and hydropower. Unlike fossil fuels, wind energy is not subject to volatile global price swings, makin

g it a stabilizing force for electricity markets.

Efforts to undermine offshore wind contradict the long-term goals of grid reliability and energy independence. The U.S. needs more domestic energy production—not less—to ensure stable electricity prices and reduce reliance on foreign fuel imports.

A Political Distraction, Not a Legitimate Threat

Despite the political noise, offshore wind development is moving forward because it is legally sound, economically beneficial, and strategically necessary. Investors and developers are right to continue their work, knowing that an executive order does not override contractual obligations.

Rather than trying to halt progress, we should be embracing offshore wind as part of a comprehensive energy strategy that strengthens the economy, creates jobs, and secures America’s place as a leader in renewable energy innovation.

The real question isn’t whether offshore wind will move forward—it’s whether we will let politics stand in the way of an industry that benefits all Americans.

 *Article link: Offshore wind construction is ignoring President Trump – CFACT