EMPIRE WIND PROJECT BACK ON TRACK: A BIG WIN FOR CLEAN ENERGY AND JOBS IN THE U.S.
After a brief pause, we heard on the 20th May, that the winds of progress are blowing once again for one of America’s most ambitious offshore wind projects. Empire Offshore Wind LLC, a subsidiary of Equinor ASA, has officially resumed construction on the Empire Wind project following the lifting of a federal stop work order issued in April 2025.
This is a major milestone not just for Equinor, but for the future of renewable energy in the United States.
š What Happened?
On April 16, 2025, the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued a stop work order, temporarily halting all construction activities on the Empire Wind project. The reasons behind the pause were not fully disclosed, but it prompted swift action and high-level discussions between federal, state, and international stakeholders.
Now, after weeks of dialogue and collaboration, the order has been lifted—and construction is back in motion.
š£ļø Leadership Speaks Out
Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor ASA, expressed his appreciation for the resolution:
“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.”
Opedal also thanked a wide range of leaders—from President Trump and Governor Hochul to congressional champions and labor groups—for their support in getting the project back on track. He even acknowledged the Norwegian government for stepping in at a critical moment.
āļø Why Empire Wind Matters
Empire Wind is more than just a construction project—it’s a cornerstone of America’s clean energy future. Located off the coast of New York, the project is designed to power 500,000 homes with clean, renewable energy. It’s already created over 1,500 jobs and is expected to bring economic benefits to states across the country, including New York, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Texas, and South Carolina.
“This project delivers on the energy ambitions shared by the United States and New York,” said Molly Morris, President of Equinor Wind US.
š° The Numbers Behind the Wind
- Project value (as of March 2025): ~$2.5 billion
- Project financing drawn: ~$1.5 billion
- Target commercial operation date: 2027
- Homes powered: 500,000
- Jobs created so far: 1,500+
Equinor plans to reassess the project’s economics in Q2 2025 and is aiming to stay on schedule for offshore installation later this year.
š A Long-Term U.S. Partner
Equinor isn’t new to the U.S. energy scene. With over 35 years of history and more than $60 billion invested in American energy projects, the company is deeply committed to supporting the country’s transition to a low-carbon future.
Bottom line? The Empire Wind project is back in action—and that’s great news for clean energy, job creation, and the future of sustainable infrastructure in the U.S