If the Conservative government hadn’t blocked onshore wind farm developments there would be enough clean energy to power 1.6 million homes per year, analysis from independent advisors Turley shows.
In 2014 the then-Conservative government made it so a single local objection could block wind farm developments in England, a policy that’s now been reversed by the Keir Starmer Labour administration.
As a result, there were 54 planning applications immediately for onshore wind in England between 2014 and 2024.
Around 2.3GW of onshore wind power could have been generated during the decade the policy was in place. Now the ban has been lifted there is a target of achieving 27-29GW of onshore wind power by 2030.
Nicola Riley, senior director, net zero infrastructure at Turley, said: “The de facto onshore wind ban has left the government lagging behind with its renewable energy generation pipeline. The latest policy change is a positive step forward as we are already seeing a shift in mindset at local political level and amongst communities. But policy change isn’t everything.
“Despite the de facto ban not being in place in Wales and Northern Ireland, only a small amount of onshore wind developments have been approved over the last decade. More needs to be done to overcome issues affecting onshore wind projects, such as transport and grid connection capacity.
“Lifting the de facto ban is only the first step and it is good to see positive changes to the connection regime as part of the broader Clean Power Plan 2030. Equally supportive local policy is needed and it is essential for Government, local authorities, industry leaders and community stakeholders to collaborate, which will result in a much more streamlined and proportionate decision-making process.
“This collaboration will create a more positive environment for applications to be made and projects delivered – producing renewable energy, jobs, community benefit funds and economic stimulus.”
Between 2014 and 2024 other UK nations progressed with their onshore wind farm development. Scotland approved projects totalling 8.1GW capacity, while Northern Ireland and Wales totalled 0.7GW and 0.5GW respectively.
