Empire Offshore Wind, a division of Equinor ASA, has been notified by the Dept. of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) that the cessation order has been revoked for the Empire Wind initiative, permitting construction tasks to recommence.
“We are grateful that construction can now continue on Empire Wind, a project that highlights our dedication to providing energy while bolstering local economies and generating employment,” states Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor ASA.
“I would like to express my gratitude to President Trump for finding a resolution that preserves thousands of American jobs and ensures ongoing investments in energy infrastructure across the U.S. I appreciate Governor Hochul for her constructive collaboration with the Trump Administration, without which we would not have been able to progress this project and secure energy for 500,000 households in New York. We are very thankful to New York City Mayor Adams, congressional leaders including Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, Representative Garbarino, and Representative Goldman, as well as labor organizations and other supporters who have consistently stood by this project,” Opedal concluded. “I also thank Norwegian Prime Minister Støre and Finance Minister Stoltenberg for their assistance during a crucial time, particularly as the Minister of Finance raised the matter with the U.S. administration.”
The cessation order was issued on April 16, 2025. Following discussions with regulators and federal, state, and city officials, the order has been rescinded, allowing construction activities to proceed.
“This project fulfills the energy goals shared by the United States and New York by delivering a crucial new power source to the region. Empire Wind fosters supply chain investments in various states across the nation, including New York, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Texas, and South Carolina,” commented Molly Morris, President of Equinor Wind US.
Equinor will conduct a revised evaluation of the project’s economic viability in the second quarter. Empire aims to implement scheduled activities during the offshore installation window in 2025 and achieve its intended commercial operation date in 2027. Empire will collaborate with suppliers and regulatory authorities to mitigate the effects of the cessation order.
After a competitive bidding process, the United States government initially leased Empire a designated area of the outer continental shelf off New York’s coast in 2017. Following an extensive environmental assessment, the United States government approved the proposal to construct a commercial offshore wind farm in early 2024, leading to the commencement of construction. Project financing was secured in 2024. Currently, the project is over 30% complete.
News item from Equinor
Filed Under: News, Offshore wind
