This research briefing “Planning for onshore wind” by the House of Commons provides insights on planning policies and rules for offshore wind in the UK. The government updated planning policies for onshore wind in England in September 2023. Planning rules for onshore wind still differ from those for other renewable energy developments and major infrastructure projects. All onshore wind turbines, except for small-scale domestic turbines, require planning permission from the local planning authority (LPA) in England. In Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the size of a project determines which body decides an application for an onshore wind development.
In September 2023, the government updated the policies to allow locations suitable for new wind farms to be identified in a number of ways. The government also updated policies for replacing existing wind turbines, which are no longer subject to the same requirements as new turbines. Decisions will continue to be made by LPAs. Onshore wind developments are restricted in designated areas, such as National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, across the UK.
Access the complete briefing here
