Trump Administration Keeps 110-Plus Wind Projects Stalled Despite Court Order

Nearly a month after a federal judge ruled in early August 2026 that the administration's freeze on wind-turbine height clearances was likely illegal, at least 110 wind projects in active discussion with the government before the injunction still had not heard back, per a Department of Justice status update filed September 17. Another 50 projects awaited initial meetings, and roughly 30 that had reached agreements with the military over radar concerns still awaited a Pentagon counter-signature. The administration told the court it had "as a matter of policy" resumed processing applications but described only one project that had heard from the military.

The update also disclosed a new, undefined "analytical methodology" all projects must still pass, which critics say preserves the freeze the court found unlawful. Because the administration controls airspace clearances above 200 feet, it retains leverage over wind projects on both private and public land regardless of the ruling.

The case remains before the court, with no contempt motion or further order compelling compliance yet.