Facing the unique challenges of UK wind energy

The UK government has set an ambitious but necessary target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Achieving it will require a significant increase in the use of renewable energy systems, primarily solar and wind power. However, the current planning landscape in the UK is not conducive to the rapid delivery of large-scale energy projects required to meet this target.

Onshore and offshore wind developers in the UK face numerous challenges in meeting the Government’s net zero targets and wind power delivery goals. These challenges need to be addressed to ensure the successful development and growth of the wind energy sector in the UK.

Devolved planning regimes

The different consenting regimes to receive planning permission or consent in the UK present a hurdle that could hinder the delivery of onshore renewable energy projects.

In England, an onshore wind farm requires planning permission from the local authority, regardless of scale. There has been an effective moratorium on developing this power source in England following the introduction of restrictive planning rules that mean, for example, a single objection to an onshore wind development can lead to it being blocked. As a result, since 2016, there has been a sharp decline in the number of sites receiving approval.

However, any other onshore electricity generating station of more than 50 MW is classed as a ‘Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project’ and requires a Development Consent Order (DCO) which is determined by the Secretary of State and administered by the Planning Inspectorate.

In Scotland, the 50 MW threshold applies to all renewable energy projects. For wind, solar and/or energy storage development of less than 50 MW, the application must be made to the Local Authority to obtain planning. For projects of more than 50 MW in Scotland, Section 36 (of the Electricity Act 1989) consent must be obtained. In this instance, it is determined by Scottish Ministers and administered by the Scottish Government Energy Consents Unit.

Wales has its own distinct consenting requirements, with electricity generating stations over 10 MW being deemed ‘Development of National Significance’ and requiring consent from Welsh Ministers (unless they exceed 350 MW, in which case they are determined by the Planning Inspectorate, as noted above for English projects). Smaller developments in Wales require planning permission from the local authority.

In Northern Ireland, the important threshold is 30 MW, below which projects require planning permission from the local divisional planning office. Projects above 30MW may be determined either by the same route or by the Department for Infrastructure, subject to consultation.

The different consenting regimes in each of the UK’s nations have clearly been designed by the respective governments to provide what they consider to be a suitable planning process. However, the result is a complex picture. The minefield of different thresholds, who you submit to, who it is determined by, what information needs to be submitted, and the timescales of agreement may cause delay and occupy already constrained resources for developers who want to work at scale and pace to implement renewable energy projects.

This is a significant challenge for developers working on onshore renewable energy projects across the UK, which can add significant costs to projects. It could ultimately hinder the UK’s ability to achieve its net zero target.

Crucial guidance

Furthermore, developers must consider the availability of grid capacity to connect their projects to the electricity network. These factors introduce further complications into the planning process and can lead to project delays.

Additionally, landscape and environmental constraints pose significant challenges for onshore wind developers. Each proposed site must be carefully assessed for its landscape and environmental sensitivities, ensuring minimal impact on the local ecosystem.

By seeking guidance from experienced consultants at the planning stage, developers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the requirements, development risks and timescales involved. This enables them to effectively prioritise sites in their development portfolio, map out their sites, scale their projects, and report accurately to stakeholders. Taking a holistic approach and working closely with the relevant experts can help onshore renewable energy and storage system developers navigate the consenting process more efficiently, ultimately supporting the UK’s net zero goals.

Offshore wind challenges – the skills shortage

In addition to onshore wind, the UK Government has set a target of delivering 50 GW of offshore wind power by 2030. However, the offshore wind industry faces its own set of challenges distinct from those experienced by onshore wind developers that must be addressed to meet this target.

One of the major challenges for the offshore wind industry is the lack of personnel and a skills shortage. There is a finite number of specialists in offshore wind, and the global growth of the offshore wind industry, the aftermath of Brexit, and the increasing complexity of offshore wind projects have contributed to this shortage. Addressing the skills gap and investing in training and skills development is crucial to ensure the industry has the workforce it needs to meet the UK’s targets.

Furthermore, there is a shortage of infrastructure, including ports, heavy lift vessels, and specialised equipment, which is required to support the construction and operation of offshore wind farms. Investment in, and development of, this infrastructure is essential to facilitate the growth of the offshore wind industry.

Complex logistics

Logistics also pose a challenge, as transporting the large and heavy components of offshore wind turbines to a construction site can be difficult. The limited number of suitable ports and challenging weather conditions offshore exacerbate this issue. Overcoming these logistical challenges will require strategic planning, collaboration, and investment in transportation and installation methods.

To address these challenges, the UK Government needs to take proactive steps. This includes investing in training and skills development programmes to alleviate the personnel shortage, supporting the development of new infrastructure to enable offshore wind projects, and simplifying the permitting process to streamline project implementation.

Collaboration within the offshore industry itself is also crucial. Sharing best practice, collaborating on research and development, and working towards the development of new technologies will help overcome the challenges and accelerate the growth of the industry. By working together, both the government and the offshore wind industry can create a thriving sector that contributes to the UK’s clean energy goals while creating jobs and attracting investment.

It is important to recognise that the UK is not the only country investing in offshore wind. China leads the world with some 26.5 GW installed by the end of 2022, accounting for 44% of the global total offshore wind capacity. Other nations, such as the US, Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea are also making significant investments in the industry. Therefore, the UK must remain competitive and address these challenges effectively to attract investment and secure its position as a global leader in offshore wind energy.

While the UK Government has made some progress in addressing these challenges, such as the announcement of its intention to legislate in order to ensure the implementation of the Offshore Wind Environmental Improvement Package (OWEIP), there is still work to be done. Continued efforts and investments are necessary to ensure the UK has the ability to meet its offshore wind power delivery target.

Holistic approach critical to ensure delivery of renewable energy goals

Both onshore and offshore renewable energy developers face unique challenges in the UK. Addressing differing consenting regimes, landscape and environmental sensitivities, grid constraints, skills shortages, infrastructure limitations, and logistical difficulties are crucial to meeting the Government’s net zero targets and renewable energy delivery goals. By taking a holistic approach, seeking early advice, investing in training and infrastructure, simplifying processes, and fostering collaboration, the UK can overcome these challenges and create a thriving, renewable energy sector that contributes to a sustainable and low-carbon future.

This article featured in New Energy World in July 2023.