Overview

• The Trump administration halted construction of the 810 MW Empire Wind project on April 16, citing insufficient environmental analysis in its approval process.
• Equinor, which has invested $2.5 billion in the project, called the suspension unprecedented and is exploring legal action while engaging with U.S. officials.
• The project, 30% complete at the time of the halt, was expected to begin operations in 2027, providing energy for 500,000 homes annually.
• The suspension raises concerns about the stability of U.S. offshore wind policy, prompting Germany's RWE to pause its U.S. wind projects as well.
• Equinor faces potential liabilities of $1.5–$2 billion in guarantees and termination fees, heightening financial risks if the project remains stalled.