Renewable energy projects worth more than $121 billion in the United States are facing growing uncertainty as permitting delays linked to the Trump administration’s policies slow the approval process, according to a new report by Wood Mackenzie. The report estimates that around 92 gigawatts (GW) of wind, solar, and energy storage projects—enough to power approximately 69 million homes—are under heightened federal scrutiny, creating significant risks for investments and delaying clean energy expansion.
The research highlights a conflict between President Donald Trump’s push to accelerate energy infrastructure to support the growing artificial intelligence industry and his opposition to renewable energy development. New federal directives require senior-level approval for renewable energy permits at every stage, extending timelines for projects that need approvals related to wetlands, wildlife protection, and access roads. Wetland permitting by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and slow airspace reviews by the Department of Defense have emerged as major obstacles, particularly for wind projects.
Wood Mackenzie estimates that nearly 32% of the country’s early-stage renewable energy pipeline is now affected by additional federal review. The report also notes that around 7 GW of renewable capacity on federal land was cancelled or stalled in 2025 due to policy changes and funding withdrawals. Researchers stressed that without more predictable and coordinated permitting processes, project delays and investment uncertainty will continue to hinder the growth of the U.S. clean energy sector, even as lawmakers from both parties seek reforms to speed up approvals.
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