Wood Mackenzie: 7 GW of Renewable Projects Cancelled on Federal Land, Another 12 GW at Risk
According to Solar Power World, federal funding withdrawals and permitting changes cancelled or halted 7 gigawatts of renewable energy projects on federal land in 2025, with another 12 GW currently threatened on federal lands and 80 GW on private lands, per a new Wood Mackenzie report. The firm puts total investment at risk at more than $121 billion. Wind carries the heaviest exposure, with 62% of its pipeline affected, while 30% of solar’s pipeline faces additional review. Projects targeting 2029 completion are most vulnerable, with delays potentially pushing commercial operation dates (CODs) past tax credit eligibility deadlines. A federal court issued a preliminary injunction in April 2026 blocking some of the new restrictions.
What It Means for Subcontractors
- If your backlog includes utility-scale solar or wind work in Texas, California, or Arizona, verify whether those projects cross federal land or require federal agency involvement, as Wood Mackenzie flags those states as concentrated risk zones.
- Wind subcontractors face the steepest exposure, with 62% of the pipeline subject to heightened federal review. Project timelines and contract start dates tied to 2029 CODs are particularly uncertain.
- Supply chain constraints and tighter financing are also contributing to cancellations, meaning permitting delays aren’t the only threat to project viability. Diversifying your pipeline beyond utility-scale renewables reduces concentration risk.
