The US Department of the Interior (DOI) has withdrawn its support for the 1,000MW Lava Ridge wind project in southern Idaho, US.
This move aligns with efforts to re-evaluate energy projects that may adversely affect rural communities and natural landscapes.
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The Lava Ridge wind project was approved by the former Biden administration in December 2024 and was being developed by LS Power, a subsidiary of Magic Valley Energy.
The project would have spanned 57,447 acres and comprised 231 turbines.
The decision comes as part of a broader initiative to comply with US President Donald Trump’s executive order to halt permitting for wind projects throughout the country.
It specifically addresses concerns over preferential treatment given to intermittent power sources under the previous administration’s policies.
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By GlobalDataThe department conducted a thorough review of the Biden administration’s approval, which uncovered legal deficiencies in the original decision, including the neglect of essential statutory criteria.
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum stated: “Under President Donald Trump’s bold leadership, the department is putting the brakes on deficient, unreliable energy and putting the American people first.
“By reversing the Biden administration’s thoughtless approval of the Lava Ridge wind project, we are protecting tens of thousands of acres from harmful wind policy while shielding the interests of rural Idaho communities. This decisive action defends the American taxpayer, safeguards our land and averts what would have been one of the largest, most irresponsible wind projects in the nation.”
The cancellation aligns with sentiments expressed by Idaho residents and state officials.
Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson advocated for a re-evaluation of the project, while Governor Brad Little enacted an executive order supporting federal review efforts.
Multiple state agencies reported insufficient consultation during initial assessments.
The DOI plans further scrutiny on leasing and permitting practices related to wind energy developments, with a focus on understanding their implications for the nation’s natural resources and local communities.
In July 2025, the US DOI announced the termination of preferential treatment for wind and solar energy projects that rely on subsidies.
This move aligns with President Trump’s Energy Dominance agenda and follows the signing of Executive Order 14315, as well as the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
