Trump Administration Lifts Stop-Work Order on Empire Wind Project

Construction has resumed on the Empire Wind offshore project off the coast of New York after the Trump administration lifted a federal stop-work order that had halted progress for over a month. The move marks a reversal in tone after Equinor, the Norwegian energy company behind the development, had warned of potential legal action over what it previously described as an "unlawful" halt.

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) informed Empire Offshore Wind LLC, a subsidiary of Equinor, that construction activities can now proceed. The stop-work order had been in place since April 16, stemming from President Trump’s broader executive order suspending new offshore wind leasing and directing reviews of existing projects.

“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,” said Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor ASA.

In a notable shift from earlier criticism, Opedal directly thanked President Trump for resolving the dispute. “I would like to thank President Trump for finding a solution that saves thousands of American jobs and provides for continued investments in energy infrastructure in the U.S.,” he said, also acknowledging collaboration from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams, and members of Congress.

The project had reached more than 30% completion before the stoppage. Equinor said it will reassess the project's economics in the second quarter and still aims to complete offshore installations in 2025, with full commercial operations targeted for 2027.

Empire Wind Project Energy Goals

Empire Wind is expected to supply power to 500,000 homes in New York and has generated supply chain investments across several states, including Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Texas, and South Carolina. Molly Morris, President of Equinor Wind US, called the project “a vital new source of power” and a cornerstone of shared U.S.–Norway energy goals.

Despite previous tensions, the project has continued to enjoy bipartisan and international support. Opedal also expressed gratitude to Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg for raising the issue directly with U.S. officials during the freeze.

Empire Wind Project Timeline

💨 2017 – The U.S. government leases offshore area near New York to Empire Offshore Wind LLC (Equinor subsidiary) following a competitive auction.

⚒️ Early 2024 – After an extensive environmental review, BOEM approves Equinor’s construction and operations plan. Construction begins shortly after; project financing is secured.

🏛️ January 20, 2025 – President Trump issues an executive order suspending new offshore wind leases and reviewing ongoing projects.

🔴 April 16, 2025 – Equinor receives a stop-work order from the BOEM, halting all activities on the outer continental shelf for Empire Wind pending further federal review.

⚖️ Late April 2025 – Equinor signals possible legal action, calling the stop "unlawful." Political pressure builds from New York officials and labor groups.

🟢 May 19, 2025 – BOEM lifts the stop-work order. Equinor announces construction will resume. CEO Anders Opedal thanks President Trump, Governor Hochul, and others for reaching a solution. Project remains on track to deliver power to 500,000 homes by 2027.

 
 
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