National lab estimates coastal turbines could power entire US electricity demand
The Trump administration has worked to stop offshore wind development since late last year on grounds that it poses a national security risk, according to the Associated Press. The administration halted work on major projects and has been buying back leases, the AP reported.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said a classified report from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth proves offshore wind is a national security threat, the AP reported. The administration’s actions come against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s stated desire to boost fossil fuels for what he calls “energy dominance” in the global market, the AP reported.
National laboratory estimates cited by the AP indicate that turbines installed along U.S. coasts could generate more than enough electricity to cover the nation’s entire annual consumption. The estimate underscores the potential scale of offshore wind resources even as federal policy shifts away from development.
Wind turbines interfere with radar, but that is not a new issue, the AP reported. The Pentagon already reviews wind farm construction plans and can declare areas off limits to development. Upgrades to radar systems exist to mitigate turbine interference, according to the AP.