In a striking move, President Donald Trump declared that his administration would not approve any new utility scale solar or wind power projects. This announcement follows recent tightening of federal permitting for renewable energy projects. It unambiguously sends a signal that we are moving away from making investments in these sectors.
Trump’s comments come in the context of his administration’s ongoing efforts to reshape energy policy. In April, Trump formally proposed his own infrastructure plan with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Specifically, it seeks to end the wind and solar investment and production tax credits by the end of 2027. These tax credits have long served an important purpose by driving the rapid growth of renewable energy in the United States.
Renewable energy companies are already starting to feel the shockwaves from Trump’s tariffs on steel and copper. These tariffs have increased costs for solar and wind projects by as much as 50 percent. Those increased costs are making life harder for the renewable sector—which is already taking a hit over a decrease in federal assistance.
In addition, Trump attributed rising electricity prices in the U.S. to renewable energy sources, stating that “the days of stupidity are over in the USA!!!” He had strong words against wind turbines, and solar panels were “farmer destroying.” This rhetoric is part of a larger pattern of skepticism toward renewables that Trump has shown since assuming office.
Even as electricity demand exceeds supply in many areas, most notably across the PJM Interconnection, the administration continues to dig in its heels. Growing demand from data centers, manufacturing, and other industries has increased that strain significantly. The rapid retirement of coal plants has played a large role in this resource stressed power environment.
The spectres of Trump’s administration continue to haunt the US renewable energy sector. Expanding utility-scale solar and wind projects will bring order back to delayed supplies and help meet increased demands for electricity, experts say. The administration’s recent decision to pause approvals for these projects muddies the waters.
“We will not approve wind or farmer destroying Solar.” – Donald Trump