E&E News reporters discuss Trump scrutiny of renewable energy projects

By Manuel Quiñones | 05/01/2026 12:55 PM EDT

The administration says it’s processing permits for renewable energy projects on public lands. Democrats and industry advocates are skeptical.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum testifying.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has discussed renewable energy permitting in recent Capitol Hill appearances. Francis Chung/POLITICO

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It’s unclear how the Interior Department is responding to a federal judge’s ruling against the administration’s enhanced reviews of renewable energy projects on public lands, said reporters Ian Stevenson and Kelsey Tamborrino.

Both Kelsey and Ian have been following the saga of the administration’s treatment of wind and solar projects on public lands and waters. Interior says it’s processing permits, but industry advocates don’t see much movement.

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They explained the new scrutiny that projects face under President Donald Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and how the courts have been responding.

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