Re: Dec. 23 article, “Administration suspends 5 wind projects off the East Coast over security concerns”

It is mind boggling that large offshore wind energy projects that are under construction were paused by the Trump administration in the name of national security. These projects were awarded permits following review by state and federal agencies. The Department of Defense was consulted at every stage of the permitting process. Based on my professional experience, design and construction of large projects go through an arduous permitting process to ensure safety and security.

Clean energy reduces dependence on polluting fossil fuels, improving people’s health. That is why most Americans want to transition to clean power. This administration has routinely thrown roadblocks to this transition, showing a lack of concern for the welfare of its own people.

New data centers are moving forward in the U.S. They are energy guzzlers, raising overall electricity prices for all customers. To ensure access to affordable energy, the pause must be lifted so these wind energy projects can finish.

Kalpana Sutaria, Media Team Leader for the Austin, Texas Chapter, Citizens’ Climate Lobby

Published in the Austin American-Statesman, January 4, 2026