Trump admin buys back CA offshore wind leases, redirects funds to gas and geothermal

The Interior Department announced a $765 million buyback of four offshore wind leases held by Invenergy, including the Even Keel Wind project off Morro Bay; Invenergy will redirect the payout to natural gas power plants and geothermal projects across several states. The move marks the second California offshore wind lease to be withdrawn under the Trump administration, drawing criticism from California officials who say it undercuts clean energy goals and energy security. California is pursuing legal remedies while continuing to explore its offshore wind plans, which rely on floating turbines and focus on Morro Bay and Humboldt Bay rather than San Diego.