Congressman Christopher H. Smith, District 4 | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Christopher H. Smith, District 4 | Official U.S. House headshot
Oil and gas company Shell has decided to withdraw from a significant offshore wind project located off the coast of New Jersey. The decision was confirmed by Shell to The Associated Press, citing increased competition, delays, and a shifting market as reasons for the withdrawal.
“Naturally we also take regulatory context into consideration,” stated spokesperson Natalie Gunnell in an email. Shell is a co-owner of the Atlantic Shores project, which had most of its permits secured and was projected to generate enough power for one million homes upon completion of both phases. This output would have covered about one-third of New Jersey households.
The development comes in the wake of an executive order signed by President Donald Trump that temporarily halts all offshore wind lease sales in federal waters. The order also pauses approvals, permits, and loans related to such projects while directing officials to review existing leases for potential legal termination.
Republican Representative Chris Smith commented on Shell's decision during an interview with News 12 New Jersey. “We have to ensure that the project is dead," Smith said. He expressed concerns about potential damage caused by offshore structures, stating it could "eviscerate our environmental system" and have catastrophic impacts on marine life and coastal areas.
This report includes contributions from The Associated Press wire services.
The News 12 New Jersey Power and Politics segment aired on February 1-2, with this information published online on January 31, 2025.
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