Equinor’s Empire Wind project will soon be back on track following a May 21, 2025, lifting of a federal stop-work order. The 810 megawatt (MW) offshore wind energy project was first purchased back in 2017 under the aegis of Donald Trump. Uptake since then has suffered from enormous hindrance. The project is about 30% finished at this point. By 2027, it will produce enough electricity to power 500 thousand homes. The U.S. administration finally approved the project in 2023, a historic step forward in the administration’s long-term efforts to promote greater renewable energy development and deployment.
The Empire Wind project, in addition to producing large amounts of clean energy, will have a huge economic impact. The landmark infrastructure bill will deliver several supply chain investments to New York, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Texas and South Carolina. Not only does this initiative fit within broader national energy goals, it supports local economies and creates jobs.
Prior to that extension, Equinor had been spending about $50 million per week to maintain operations while activities remained suspended. The company stated that it may be subject to up to $3 billion in potential losses as a result of the suspension. Equinor has moved in a big way to put action behind their words to confront these challenges. They intend to conduct another review of Empire Wind’s financial viability in Q2 2025.
“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.” – Anders Opedal
The eventual lifting of the stop-work order carries wider significance for the U.S. investment climate in renewable energy. Empire Wind has since been part of a successful compromise agreement with the state of New York. This deal would pave the way for reanimating the Constitution natural gas pipeline proposal plans that had previously been canceled. This latest move is part of a larger trend towards recognizing the need for energy while respecting environmental requirements.
Empire Wind intends to maximize its planned activities during the offshore installation window in 2025, maintaining its targeted commercial operation date in 2027. The U.S. now has four operational offshore wind farms and four more under construction, including the Empire Wind project. This groundbreaking initiative is critical to the nation’s shift toward renewable energy.
“This project delivers on the energy ambitions shared by the US and New York by providing a vital new source of power to the region. Empire Wind brings supply chain investments in states across the nation, including New York, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Texas and South Carolina.” – Molly Morris