Recent reports indicate that a significant offshore wind project planned off the coast of New Jersey is being scrapped, following the developer securing a key Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) permit in March. Atlantic Shores filed to terminate its contract with state utility regulators on June 4, aiming to provide electricity for New Jersey. The company pointed to the EPA’s decision and referenced an executive order from former President Donald Trump that restricted permits as a driving factor in this decision.
If it had moved forward, the Atlantic Shores Project was expected to power nearly one million homes in New Jersey by utilizing around 200 large offshore wind turbines. Atlantic Shores’ CEO, Joris Beldoven, expressed that offshore wind still offers a solid value proposition for New Jersey, including numerous well-paying jobs and stable electricity prices, as stated to a local news outlet.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy previously framed the project as a vital part of the state’s ambitions for 100% clean energy by 2050. However, during his presidency, Joe Biden promoted a massive offshore wind expansion. Yet, many of the projects backed by his administration faced setbacks, mainly due to the differing regulatory landscape shaped by the Trump administration. Notably, two other significant developments off the New Jersey coast were also abandoned by the company Orsted in late 2023.
After taking office, Trump rolled back many of Biden’s green energy policies, effectively launching an opposition to the offshore wind sector. Furthermore, from 2023 to 2025, mounting concerns over high voltage cables sparked protests at offshore wind sites, primarily linked to environmental issues, including the death of marine animals, which further fueled public dissent.
Local fishermen have expressed their opposition to offshore wind initiatives, arguing that their livelihoods would suffer alongside the construction of wind turbines. Despite Trump’s disapproval of offshore energy, Democratic leaders continue to champion the technology, as demonstrated by New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s support for a wind project in her state, though her office has denied any controversial deals related to natural gas pipelines.
Requests for comments from Atlantic Shores, Murphy’s office, and the White House have gone unanswered.
