Author: PPD Team Date: 24/04/2025
Equinor has suspended offshore construction of its Empire Wind 1 project off the coast of New York following a stop-work order issued by U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. This unexpected directive has raised concerns among European suppliers who had committed to the U.S. offshore wind market.
Empire Wind 1, a joint venture between Equinor and BP, was poised to become one of the largest offshore wind farms in the U.S., with an 810-megawatt capacity capable of powering 700,000 homes annually. The project had secured all necessary federal and state permits and had already invested approximately $2.5 billion, including the development of the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal as a key support hub for offshore wind operations.
The halt has significant implications for European suppliers:
- Vestas had secured an order to supply 54 V236-15.0 MW turbines, with delivery expected to begin in 2026.
- Nexans was contracted to provide 74 km of 230 kV export cables, manufactured at its new Charleston, SC, plant.
- Prysmian was set to supply 150 km of 66 kV inter-array cables.
- SIF Group had committed to delivering 54 XXL monopile foundations, incorporating U.S.-fabricated secondary steel components.
These suppliers had invested in U.S. manufacturing and logistics to support the project, highlighting their commitment to the U.S. offshore wind sector.
The stop-work order, issued as part of a broader review of offshore wind permitting initiated by President Donald Trump, has raised questions about the stability and reliability of U.S. energy policy. Analysts warn that such abrupt policy shifts could deter future investments and undermine the growth of the offshore wind industry in the U.S.
Equinor has expressed its intention to engage with the administration to seek clarification and explore possible legal remedies. The company remains committed to the project and is awaiting further developments.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders across the industry are closely monitoring the implications for future offshore wind projects and the broader clean energy transition in the U.S.