Pentagon Approves Wind Projects Amid Trump’s Push for Energy Permitting Bill

The Trump administration has begun lifting a hold on several U.S. wind energy projects in an effort to rally support for a bipartisan bill aimed at accelerating domestic energy and infrastructure development.

On Thursday, the Department of Defense cleared proposed onshore wind farms in Maine and South Dakota following a national security evaluation. A White House official speaking anonymously confirmed the action, noting that additional approvals are anticipated in the coming weeks. Pentagon evaluations—intended to prevent interference with military operations—have created a significant backlog of wind projects under President Donald Trump.

The release of these holds aligns with commitments made during negotiations on a bipartisan permitting overhaul bill led by Democratic Senators Martin Heinrich and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with Republican Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Mike Lee.

Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that the administration’s pledge covers approximately 30 of the nearly 300 wind projects currently awaiting Pentagon clearance. Senator Whitehouse stated that while the initial approvals are a positive step, further action regarding wind and solar initiatives will be necessary.

If passed, the proposed legislation would streamline federal environmental reviews and expedite permitting processes for both renewable energy initiatives and oil and gas infrastructure. The Senate is expected to consider the measure following the November midterm elections, though the bill continues to face resistance from progressive lawmakers and environmental advocacy groups.