Onshore Wind

Onshore wind is the cheapest, cleanest source of energy we have. Yet, since 2015 the Government has effectively banned new developments in England through its National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), keeping bills high and damaging our energy security.

The Government has now said it will consult on ensuring local support for onshore wind, including changes to national planning policy. This followed significant support from its own MPs for an amendment to the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill, NC90, that would have removed the block on onshore wind in the NPPF.

I would have supported amendment NC90 had it not been withdrawn following the Government’s announcement. However, even that would only have swapped the ban for a still highly restrictive planning regime on onshore wind. The Government’s announcement of a consultation, meanwhile, fails to properly lift the ban or provide clarity. Instead, it promises further delay and continues to deny Britain lower energy bills and improved energy security in the middle of an energy crisis.

To cut bills, strengthen our security, create good jobs, grow our economy and tackle the climate crisis, I believe we need to end the ban, bring consenting for onshore wind in line with other infrastructure, with the chance for communities to have their say that that entails, and support councils in proactively identifying local opportunities for onshore wind deployment. More widely, I believe we need to double our onshore wind capacity as part of a plan to make Britain a clean energy superpower with a zero-carbon electricity system by 2030. I can therefore assure you that I will continue to support efforts to press the Government on this issue.