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A major wind project off the east coast of the United States, which was halted last month by the American government, has been given the green light to proceed. The offshore project, Empire Wind, is expected to provide enough energy to power half a million households in New York.
Empire Wind, featuring 54 wind turbines, is being developed by the Norwegian energy company Equinor and will create jobs for over 1,500 people. The foundations for these turbines are supplied by the Dutch company Sif. In mid-April, Equinor was ordered by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to halt all construction activities. However, the administration of President Donald Trump has now reversed that decision.
Equinor had already stated it would engage in discussions with authorities about the suspension of the billion-dollar project and was considering legal steps. Equinor CEO Anders Opedal expressed relief that construction can resume, emphasizing the project's support for the local economy and employment. New York Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the project's significance for job creation and sustainable energy supply.
Upon entering the White House, Trump signed an executive order suspending permits for new wind projects. He has been highly critical of offshore wind farms, citing cost concerns. Sif recently shipped the first six foundations, known as monopiles, for Empire Wind from Rotterdam to New York and has committed to continuing production for the project.
