President Donald Trump’s flurry of executive orders includes stopping any new permits for offshore wind energy and requiring an assessment of current ones.
U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-2nd), in a statement, said that “for those of us who care about protecting our oceans and wildlife, and for hardworking Americans already struggling with rising energy costs, this is a significant victory.” According to Van Drew’s office, the order was heavily influenced by the four-term congressman. Van Drew has been a longtime critic of offshore wind, arguing that it hurts marine life and is economically unfeasible.
“They’re going to study the leases they’ve given out. I’m not sure what that means yet, so we’re going to have to dig in,” Gov. Phil Murphy said Tuesday, refusing to rule out a lawsuit. “Are we prepared to use our legal muscle? Yes, absolutely. But it will depend on the situation at hand.”
Trump’s executive order has drawn heavy criticism from environmental advocates, who say the pause is bad for the environment and job creation.
“It’s going to increase our energy prices,” said Ed Potosnak, executive director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. “It’s going to pollute our air. It’s going to give away thousands of good, high-paying jobs.”
