The Trump administration announced on Tuesday that it was halting any government-initiated wind energy projects as part of its reshaping of the country’s approach to renewable energy.
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum touted “four policy measures to advance President Donald J. Trump’s commonsense approach to affordable, reliable energy development in America,” including the pivot away from wind energy. The four measures were: stopping preferential treatment for wind projects, restoring Congress’s mandate to consider all uses of our public lands and waters equally, enhancing stakeholder engagement for offshore wind development, and reviewing the consequences of developing wind turbines on migratory birds.
“In alignment with President Donald J. Trump’s directives, the Department of the Interior is ending special treatment for unreliable energy sources, such as wind,” a press release announced. “This includes evaluating whether to stop onshore wind development on some federal lands and halting future offshore wind lease sales.”
The Interior Department also explained that it was taking steps to ensure that renewable energy projects do not threaten avian species. As part of these efforts, the DOI said it would analyze the effect wind energy devices have on bird populations.
“These changes are part of a broader America First energy strategy focused on affordability, reliability, and accountability for the American people,” read the release. “As part of efforts to support a stable power grid and elevate local voices, the Department will improve consultation with tribes, local communities, and the fishing industry regarding offshore wind projects.”
“The latest reforms aim to ensure that energy development reflects local land-use priorities and community values,” noted the release.
As governor of North Dakota, Burgum steadily promoted “clean energy” and regularly touted his state’s “all-inclusive energy portfolio.” Incidentally, in 2022, while governor, one-third of North Dakota’s energy generation was due to wind energy projects, according to available data. He also regularly stressed the importance of “clean energy” in job development in his state.
“North Dakota boasts an all-inclusive energy portfolio,” Burgum said in a statement during Clean Energy Week in 2024. “We must harness the power of entrepreneurs and small businesses in North Dakota, along with government collaboration, to assert American energy leadership in the global marketplace and assure low-cost, reliable energy here at home, including both carbon and renewable energy sources.”
TRUMP IS ABSOLUTELY RIGHT ABOUT WIND TURBINES
As secretary of the interior, Burgum emphasized the significance of developing energy programs that “put Americans’ interests first.”
“These policy changes represent a commonsense approach to energy that puts Americans’ interests first,” Burgum said. “Leveling the playing field in permitting supports energy development that’s reliable, affordable, and built to last. We’re also making sure tribes and local communities have a real seat at the table. This move is about responsible energy growth that works for every American.”
