Department of Defense Halts Texas Wind Projects Over National Security Concerns
The U.S. Department of Defense has paused the issuance of federal permits for 54 wind projects in Texas, citing national security concerns. This decision is part of a broader halt affecting 165 onshore wind projects nationwide. The Department of Defense is required by federal law to review structures over 200 feet tall, such as wind turbines, to ensure they do not interfere with military operations. However, the review process has stalled, with no approvals since August 2025. This delay has disrupted project financing, local permits, and construction timelines, causing significant setbacks for developers. The Department of Defense states that the evaluation process is complex, involving the balance of energy development and military readiness.