Due to strict rules, the construction of onshore wind turbines in Great Britain is almost impossible – now the government is allowing a relaxation. She is reacting to demands from environmental groups and also from her own party.
The UK government has agreed to relax rules on the construction of onshore wind farms in the UK. Due to the previous, very strict regulations, the construction of new wind turbines on land was as good as impossible. Even a single objection could stop such projects before the planning phase.
Recently, however, the pressure on the conservative government of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to relax the regulations had increased. Not only environmental groups, but also advocates of renewable energies among the Tories themselves had pushed for a change in the law.
Previous rules have been in effect since 2015
The changes are now being introduced to “enhance our energy security and promote a cleaner, greener economy,” said local government minister Michael Gove in a letter to Parliament. The relaxation allows cities and communities to support onshore wind power projects. In addition, the new regulation will help “build on Great Britain’s enormous success as the world market leader in offshore wind energy” and achieve its climate protection goals.
The previous rules were introduced in 2015 by former Prime Minister David Cameron out of consideration for conservative voters in rural areas. In fact, however, they amounted to a ban on new wind farms and smaller sites.
Government wants to examine rewards
Now that the new regulations have come into force, municipalities can apply to their responsible administration for the construction of onshore wind turbines that are not part of so-called development plans. However, the final decision is still made by the elected municipal councils. From now on, however, these must take into account the opinion of the entire community and not just that of the opponents of wind power.
Meanwhile, the government said it would explore “enhanced rewards and benefits” for communities that support onshore wind farms. This also includes possible discounts on the electricity bill.
planning procedure should be facilitated
The UK is a leader in offshore wind energy. However, when it comes to onshore facilities, which are cheaper and quicker to build, the UK has so far fallen short of its potential.
The planned change is intended to make the planning process easier. The former President of the 2021 World Climate Conference in Glasgow COP 26, Alok Sharma, had campaigned for the easing among the governing Tories.
However, some activists criticized the proposed changes as insufficient. They are “weak” and just “more hot air from the government,” said Greenpeace representative Doug Parr.