New Review Process for Renewable Energy Projects Spark Concerns

Experts warn that the new layers of oversight could significantly delay renewable energy projects nationwide.

The Trump administration announced on Thursday the implementation of a new directive that will subject wind and solar energy projects to rigorous political review, a move that critics claim could hinder the growth of renewable energy in the country. According to a memo released by the Interior Department, over 68 types of agency actions related to the approval of solar and wind power plants will now require the attention of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, rather than being overseen by lower-tier agency staff.

The Department stated that the intention behind this measure was to eliminate what it termed “preferential treatment for unreliable, subsidy-dependent wind and solar energy.” However, experts are apprehensive that this sweeping approach could lead to significant bottlenecks and delays for numerous renewable energy endeavors.

Although a limited number of wind and solar assets are constructed on federal lands managed by the Interior Department, many projects on private properties usually seek consultation with the agency to understand if federal permits are necessary to comply with wildlife protection regulations or other legal requirements. With the new oversight protocols in place, obtaining such permits could now take longer and create obstacles for clean energy advancement.