EPA Revokes Air Quality Permit for Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind Project

ATLANTIC COUNTY, NJ – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has revoked the air quality permit previously issued for the Atlantic Shores offshore wind project, planned for lease areas off the coast of Long Beach Island and Atlantic City. The decision follows a challenge from the anti-offshore wind group Save LBI, which argued that the EPA failed to conduct a thorough examination of the potential impact the project could have on air quality. The agency has pulled the permit for further review. Atlantic Shores had received its final federal approvals in October 2024, with plans to build two offshore wind projects in federal waters approximately nine miles off the New Jersey coast. The project included up to 200 wind turbines, offshore substations, and high-energy cables to connect the electricity to the onshore grid. The project was originally a joint venture between Shell plc and EDF Renewables. However, in recent months, both companies have distanced themselves from the project. Shell announced a pause in its involvement, taking a $956 million write-off, while EDF Group reported a 940 million euro write-down on the project’s value. Following the EPA’s decision on March 14, Atlantic Shores expressed disappointment but did not immediately indicate future plans. The revocation of the air quality permit further delays the project, which had already faced significant opposition and financial setbacks in 2024.