Environment, Climate, and Clean Energy Working Group Chair Scott Peters on Trump Administration’s Undermining of American Energy
Today, New Democrat Coalition Environment, Climate, & Clean Energy Working Group Chair Scott Peters (CA-50) issued a statement after the Trump Administration halted all work for ongoing offshore wind leases, including for projects already under construction.
Today’s shortsighted action undermines the American energy industry, puts thousands of jobs at risk, and adds to already high utility bills. The five wind projects are expected to collectively power 2.5 million homes and businesses, with one already sending over 400 megawatts to the grid. Interfering with these projects will not only raise long-term costs but also makes energy more expensive today.
As laid out in the Coalition’s framework to achieve energy independence, security, and affordability, New Dems will continue to pursue policies that unleash American energy, strengthen the grid, and lower utility costs.
Working Group Chair Scott Peters issued the following statement on today’s lease halt:
“The Trump Administration has put thousands of American jobs at risk and sent a big gift to China, right before the holidays, by grinding offshore wind construction to a halt. These projects are desperately needed to fuel the American economy and meet energy demand. Today’s actions are a step backwards for those who want to see manufacturing grow, lower utility bills, and win the A.I. race.
“The President’s purported reason for stopping these leases – national security – is nonsense. The Department of Defense found in 2023 and 2024 that these projects ‘would not have adverse impacts to DoD missions in the area.’ With utility prices up over 5% nationally this year, the Trump administration is only adding to the pain families feel in their pocketbooks for no good reason.
“Instead of fighting American-made energy, President Trump should be focused on policies that lower utility bills and strengthen our country. That means bipartisan permitting reform. After today’s actions, it is increasingly vital that any permitting reform deal in Congress contain language to provide certainty for projects like these. This holiday season, Trump has given thousands of Americans anxiety about their jobs and put America last. Today’s decision should be undone immediately, and these projects should be put back on track.”
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