Overview
- Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse and Martin Heinrich announced a return to negotiations on legislation to speed approvals for major projects.
- The lawmakers said they expect no further interference with already-permitted offshore wind and foresee faster movement on solar and other renewables.
- They cited Interior’s recent processing of solar and onshore wind applications, with several fast-tracked solar projects showing updated review timelines.
- Sen. Mike Lee welcomed the move and said he looks forward to pursuing a bipartisan permitting deal as Energy and Natural Resources Committee chair.
- Democrats previously paused talks over administration actions against offshore wind and solar approvals, and they warned that any new setbacks could halt the renewed effort.