On December 7, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Patti Saris ruled against an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump that halted all offshore wind power development and certain onshore projects. The judge characterized the order as 'arbitrary and capricious and contrary to law,' effectively nullifying the directive that suspended permitting for wind power on federal land and waters pending a review of existing practices.

This ruling followed a lawsuit filed in May by seventeen states, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who argued that the ban posed a significant threat to the wind industry and hindered progress in addressing climate change. In her statement, James highlighted the critical role of wind energy in providing a clean, reliable, and affordable energy source.

The court's decision came after testimony revealed that government agencies had made minimal progress in developing a review framework for the permitting process, despite being instructed to do so over ten months prior. The only defense for the suspension was the executive order itself, which Judge Saris found insufficient. She noted that the agencies failed to provide a reasoned explanation for deviating from established practices, which is a requirement under the Administrative Procedures Act.

While the ruling lifts the suspension on wind projects, it does not guarantee immediate approval for any specific projects. Agencies may continue to delay leasing and licensing processes, potentially leading to further legal challenges from states and project developers. This situation underscores the lack of justification for the previous administration's actions, which appeared to stem from personal biases against wind power.

The Trump administration had initially prioritized offshore wind development, crucial for the climate strategies of many northeastern states that lack suitable onshore sites for renewable energy. However, on his first day in office, Trump issued the order to block wind power development, which included attempts to halt projects already under construction. In one instance, a judge lifted a construction hold, deeming the lack of justification for the suspension as 'the height of arbitrary and capricious.'

Judge Saris addressed the significant harm experienced by the states due to the suspension, noting that wind projects would generate tax revenue, reduce energy costs for citizens, and contribute to climate goals. The government argued that the suspension was not a final decision and thus not subject to the Administrative Procedures Act, but Saris ruled that the decision to suspend all activity was indeed final and not open to reconsideration.

The ruling indicates that any future attempts to block wind power development will require a reasonable justification beyond presidential direction. However, it remains uncertain whether agencies will promptly approve projects as mandated by law, and ongoing delays may complicate the situation for companies involved in wind energy development.