Trump Administration Halts 165 Onshore Wind Projects Over Security

The administration of Donald Trump has halted the development of approximately 165 onshore wind projects on private lands across the United States. The U.S. Department of Defense is withholding approvals for these sites, including those in active negotiations and those awaiting final sign-off. The department has not approved a wind project since August 2025 and canceled all pending developer meetings in April 2026.

Officials cite national security concerns regarding military airspace and radar interference, specifically noting the placement of wind farms near military bases with air power components. There are additional concerns that foreign powers, such as China, have attempted to purchase land near military facilities for surveillance. While federal law typically requires reviews for structures over 200 feet to be completed within 60 days, the current delays have disrupted project financing and construction timelines.

Texas is the most affected region, with 54 stalled projects located near 17 military bases. Critics, including the advocacy group Conservative Texans for Energy Innovation, argue the move stifles renewable energy growth and will increase electricity costs for consumers. This action aligns with other administration efforts to favor fossil fuels, such as the Department of the Interior paying TotalEnergies $1 billion to abandon an offshore wind project.