Atlantic Shores Withdraws Offshore Wind Project Citing Political and Economic Challenges

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Atlantic Shores has officially requested to terminate its offshore wind farm project in South Jersey, blaming economic difficulties and political opposition under President Donald Trump’s administration. The project, which lost its major partner Shell earlier this year, also lost a critical environmental permit required for construction. On June 4, Atlantic Shores filed a petition with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities seeking to end the project’s approval. CEO Joris Veldhoven described the move as a “reset period” rather than a permanent exit, emphasizing that offshore wind remains vital for New Jersey’s energy future and economy. The project had planned to install 197 turbines between Atlantic City and Long Beach Island, generating 2,800 megawatts—enough power for 1 million homes. However, financial hurdles and the loss of key permits stalled progress. Shell’s withdrawal in January, after writing off nearly $1 billion, further weakened the effort. Environmental and anti-wind groups welcomed the decision, calling it a victory for the Jersey Shore. Robin Shaffer of Protect Our Coast NJ criticized the state’s offshore wind investments and linked them to rising electricity costs. Atlantic Shores continues to hold leases for three other offshore areas and indicated it may pursue future projects if conditions improve. This setback follows a string of canceled offshore wind farms in New Jersey, including Ørsted’s 2023 cancellation of two South Jersey projects. Officials and industry advocates stress the ongoing demand for reliable power and call for long-term solutions to grow New Jersey’s clean energy capacity.