In a major blow to the Trump administration, a federal judge has overturned a stop-work order, allowing construction to restart on the Revolution Wind offshore wind project off Rhode Island's coast, as the Washington Examiner reports.

This ruling permits the nearly completed project, led by Orsted and Skyborn Renewables, to resume immediately after a month-long pause, despite opposition from the Interior Department.

The Revolution Wind project, situated off the coast of Rhode Island, was approximately 80% complete when the Interior Department issued a stop-work order about a month ago.

Judge overrules federal halt to wind project

The department claimed that the developers had rushed the permitting process and failed to address national security concerns with the Department of War, formerly known as the Department of Defense.

In response, Orsted and its partner Skyborn Renewables filed a lawsuit earlier this month in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to challenge the halt.

Orsted argued that the project had already passed thorough reviews for national security issues and reported daily losses exceeding $2 million due to the imposed delay.

Court slams 'arbitrary' Trump administration stance

On Monday, District Judge Royce Lamberth ruled in favor of the renewable energy companies, lifting the stop-work order.

Judge Lamberth sharply criticized the administration's actions as the "height of arbitrary and capricious actions," highlighting flaws in the government's reasoning.

He further noted that "all the things the Interior Department said it wished to review had already been covered in a 'multi-year, multi-agency review.'"

Risk of irreparable harm cited by judge

In his ruling, Judge Lamberth emphasized the potential consequences, stating, "If Revolution Wind cannot meet benchmark deadlines, the entire project could collapse."

He added, "There is no doubt in my mind of irreparable harm to the plaintiffs," underscoring the urgency of resuming work.

Following the decision, Orsted expressed relief and announced that construction would restart "as soon as possible, with safety as the top priority."

Administration faces setback in wind energy opposition

The Trump administration, which has the option to appeal the court's decision, has faced a significant setback in its efforts to curb offshore wind development.

President Donald Trump has publicly voiced his opposition to new offshore wind turbines, particularly during his second term, aligning with the Interior Department's initial stance.

This ruling not only revives the Revolution Wind project but also raises questions about the future of federal oversight on renewable energy initiatives under the current administration.