A recent study conducted by Exeter University’s Environmental Intelligence Centre in collaboration with Friends of the Earth has unveiled significant untapped potential for renewable energy production across England.
The comprehensive analysis evaluated land throughout England, identifying approximately 374,900 hectares, equivalent to 2.9% of the country’s total land area, as highly suitable for the development of new onshore wind and solar farms.
Among the top regions with the highest potential are North Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and East Riding of Yorkshire, as revealed by the study.
It’s worth noting that the study excluded national parks, areas of natural beauty, higher-grade agricultural land, and heritage sites, prioritizing environmental conservation in its calculations.
Despite these considerations, researchers identified ample viable land capable of generating an estimated 130,421 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of solar power and 95,542 GWh of onshore wind energy, significantly surpassing the current combined output of 17,063 GWh.
According to the analysis, the identified land holds the potential to produce 2.5 times the electricity required to power all households in England, positioning the UK as a potential leader in green energy production with the capability to export clean electricity globally.
The study underscores the pressing need for the UK to double its renewable electricity production within the next six years to ensure energy security while aligning with climate targets for decarbonizing the energy system.
This increase is deemed critical for meeting objectives related to the electrification of transportation, transitioning to clean heating, achieving national climate goals, and fulfilling international commitments to reduce carbon emissions by 68% by 2030.
In response to the study’s findings, Friends of the Earth is advocating for comprehensive policy measures, including the relaxation of restrictions on onshore wind farms, local authorities’ identification of suitable areas for renewables, and substantial investment in modernizing the electricity grid.
Tony Bosworth, climate campaigner at Friends of the Earth, emphasized the urgency for political leaders to devise a robust, ambitious, and equitable climate plan that addresses barriers to onshore wind and solar power while facilitating investment in the necessary infrastructure to support the transition to renewables.
Additionally, the green group highlights the importance of ensuring biodiversity benefits and community engagement in renewable energy projects.
Coinciding with these efforts, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has quietly initiated a call for evidence on the challenges hindering community energy projects in England.