Revolution Wind Project Receives Legal Green Light to Resume Operations
The Revolution Wind Project has been granted a preliminary injunction by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, allowing it to resume operations after a suspension order from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) in December 2025. This ruling comes amid ongoing legal challenges to BOEM’s decisions made on August 22 and December 22, 2025. The 704 megawatt (MW) offshore wind farm, located in federal waters approximately 15 miles south of Rhode Island, is poised to restart construction efforts aimed at delivering renewable energy to the northeastern United States.
The joint venture between Skyborn Renewables and Ørsted is eager to move forward with the project, which is nearly 87% complete. All offshore foundations have been installed, and 58 out of 65 wind turbines are already in place. The project also includes fully operational export cables and offshore substations. Revolution Wind was initially expected to begin generating power as early as January 2026, with plans to provide electricity to over 350,000 homes in Connecticut and Rhode Island under long-term power purchase agreements.
Legal Challenges and Project Impact
Revolution Wind initiated legal action against the lease suspension earlier this month, arguing that the BOEM’s order violates applicable laws and threatens the project’s viability. The project has already secured all necessary federal and state permits following extensive consultations with various governmental agencies, including the Department of Defense, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the National Marine Fisheries Service. These discussions resulted in a formal agreement to address potential national security impacts.
Experts from ISO-NE, an independent grid operator, have warned that halting the Revolution Wind Project could lead to increased electricity costs and reduced reliability in the region. The project is not only crucial for energy supply but also plays a significant role in supporting U.S. jobs across various sectors, including construction, operations, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. To date, it has generated over two million union work hours and is part of Ørsted’s broader investment in energy infrastructure across more than 40 states.
BOEM’s Next Steps in Competitive Leasing Process for Offshore Wind Energy
In addition to Revolution Wind, Ørsted’s subsidiary, Sunrise Wind, is currently evaluating its options regarding a similar lease suspension issued by the BOEM in December 2025. As the legal proceedings unfold, the future of these significant renewable energy projects remains a focal point for stakeholders in the energy sector.
