Trump intends to impede Iberdrola's wind energy projects in Massachusetts

In a surprising turn of events, the Trump administration has moved to block the development of several offshore wind projects along the US East Coast, including Iberdrola SA's New England Wind 1 and 2 projects in Massachusetts. This decision has sent shockwaves through the industry, with shares of Iberdrola and other developers taking a hit.

Iberdrola, a private Spanish energy company, announced its plans for the New England Wind projects on September 12, 2025, with the aim to supply electricity to over 900,000 homes in the state. The projects are being developed by Iberdrola's subsidiary, Avangrid Inc.

The administration's actions have disrupted plans for at least four wind farms off the US East Coast this year. The move is part of an unprecedented attack on the nascent offshore wind industry, which has been a promising source of clean energy.

Trump's special contempt for offshore wind has imperiled investments, with projects even 80% finished being forced to halt construction. For instance, the administration has halted construction of a near-complete project south of Rhode Island led by Orsted SA. Orsted A/S and Vestas Wind Systems A/S, key players in the offshore wind sector, have seen their shares decline as a result.

The construction of a wind farm near Nantucket gained national attention last summer due to a blade splintering and causing damage to the southern beaches. The island community reached a settlement with blade manufacturer GE Vernova Inc., securing $10.5 million in compensation for cleanup costs, lost rental income, and other losses.

This is not the first time the Trump administration has taken such action. In April, the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum froze Equinor ASA's $5 billion Empire Wind farm off the coast of Long Island, later lifting the order after striking a deal with Governor Kathy Hochul to allow a new natural gas pipeline.

The future of these offshore wind projects remains uncertain, as the administration's stance on renewable energy continues to create uncertainty for developers and investors. Iberdrola declined to comment on the move, adding to the mystery surrounding the decision.