By Mike Schuler, gCaptain
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has lifted the stop work order on the Empire Wind project, allowing construction activities to resume after a month-long suspension.
The $5 billion Empire Wind 1 project, designed to power 500,000 New York homes by 2027, represents a significant milestone in the U.S. renewable energy sector. The project, which began construction in 2024 and is currently more than 30% complete, faced a temporary setback when BOEM ordered an immediate cessation of activities on April 16, 2025.
Empire Wind also includes a potential second phase with a collective generating capacity of approximately 2.1 gigawatts.
Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor ASA, expressed gratitude to key stakeholders, including President Trump and New York Governor Hochul, whose collaboration proved crucial in resolving the situation. “We appreciate the fact that construction can now resume on Empire Wind, a project which underscores our commitment to deliver energy while supporting local economies and creating jobs,” Opedal stated.
The suspension was part of a broader halt on offshore wind development ordered by President Trump, with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum citing concerns about the previous administration’s approval process.
The decision prompted legal action from 18 states, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, aimed at protecting maritime investments and jobs.
The project’s financial stakes are substantial, with Empire Wind holding a gross book value of approximately USD 2.5 billion as of March 31, 2025, including USD 1.5 billion in project finance term loans. The development also encompasses the redevelopment of the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, set to become the nation’s largest dedicated port facility for offshore wind.
Related:
US lifts ban on New York offshore wind project after gas compromise (Reuters)
Empire Wind project resumes after Trump administration lifts halt (LI Business News)
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