The Pentagon has halted permitting for at least 155 onshore wind projects across 24 states for nearly a year, citing risks from drones interfering with military radar. Developers report $2 billion in added costs and missed deadlines for federal tax credits.
The freeze affects projects with a combined capacity of 44 gigawatts. Wind developers must submit proposals for review, but the Pentagon has not resumed approvals or set a timeline for doing so.
A coalition of renewable energy groups sued the Department of Defense in May, arguing the pause violates transparency rules and threatens project viability. Fifty-five Democratic lawmakers also requested a briefing from the Pentagon that month, but no response has been issued.
The Pentagon maintains the delay protects national security from emerging drone threats. Industry consultant Dave Belote called the move politically motivated and lacking required public process.
