Analysts support Labour’s onshore wind planning reform but doubt prices claim
Net zero minister Ed Miliband criticized previous administrations’ ‘de facto ban’ on onshore wind, calling it a symbol of poor decision-making that has increased energy bills.
Energy analysts expressed approval of the Labour government’s decision to lift the onshore wind ban but raised doubts about claims of cost reduction.
Under the plans revealed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the government aims to double onshore wind energy by 2030. Reeves stated that the absurd ban on new onshore wind farms in England has been removed, and energy projects will be prioritized in the planning system.
‘De Facto Ban’
Previous regulations during the Conservative government in 2015 required any applications for wind turbines to have community support. However, in September last year, former Secretary Michael Gove loosened the restrictions to accelerate projects with local backing despite a few objectors, leading to the removal of the de facto ban on onshore wind in England.
According to Miliband, “The onshore wind ban symbolizes how bad decisions over the past fourteen years have raised energy bills for families.” He added, “Today, it comes to an end.”
Welcome Reform to Planning Rules
Chief Operating Officer and energy analyst Andy Meyer welcomed the ease of planning rules, hoping for radical reforms in nuclear permitting. He mentioned that the ban lift would reduce future energy supply costs, contingent on support packages, grid connection costs, and back-up expenses when wind power is unavailable.
Utility energy analyst Steve Loftus commended Labour’s removal of regulations hindering construction, hoping for similar actions in other sectors to enhance productivity. However, he noted that onshore wind has limitations due to low load factors and backup requirements.
Done in the Right Way
Industry insiders and Green MPs appreciated Labour’s progress, emphasizing the importance of implementing renewable energy expansion properly. RenewableUK CEO Dan McGrail highlighted technological advancements in turbines reducing the need for excessive installations in the countryside.
Green Party co-leader Adrian Ramsay endorsed Labour’s step towards renewable energy but stressed the need for comprehensive insulation programs to lower energy bills and improve home efficiency.
The Conservative Party was contacted for comments, and PA Media contributed to this report.
