New analysis from the University of Exeter, commissioned by Friends of the Earth (FoE), reveals that England could generate significantly more renewable energy than it currently does, utilizing less than 3% of its landmass.
According to the research, onshore wind and solar projects have the potential to produce enough electricity to power English households two and a half times over. Presently, around 17 terawatt hours of electricity per year is generated from domestic renewables on land. However, the analysis indicates that solar panels could yield 130TWh, while onshore wind could contribute 96TWh.
These figures are based on the assessment of the most suitable sites, excluding national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty, higher grade agricultural land, and heritage sites.
Contrary to some concerns about the impact of solar farms on food production, the study suggests there is ample land available without compromising agricultural activities. Notably, more land is occupied by golf courses than solar farms, and developers can be required to enhance biodiversity through measures like maintaining hedgerows and ponds.
In 2015, onshore windfarms were effectively banned by then-Prime Minister David Cameron. Although slight amendments to planning regulations were made by Rishi Sunak last year, campaigners argue that these changes were insufficient, calling for substantial planning reform. Notably, no new windfarm plans were submitted in England last year, despite the escalating costs of gas and electricity.
The analysis excludes rooftop solar panels, and despite calls for their mandatory installation on new-build housing, ministers have resisted such measures. Retrofitting a new-build home with renewables and other low-carbon features costs significantly less than retrofitting existing homes to the same standard.
FoE has produced a map outlining potential sites for onshore wind and solar generation, with North Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and the East Riding of Yorkshire identified as particularly promising areas. These sites represent approximately 2.9% of England’s available land.
Tony Bosworth, climate campaigner at Friends of the Earth, emphasized the urgent need to tap into the UK’s renewable energy potential to lower energy bills and meet carbon emissions reduction targets. He called on all major parties to lift restrictions on onshore windfarms, identify suitable areas for renewable development, upgrade the electricity grid, and enforce stricter biodiversity protection requirements on renewable developers.
Additionally, Bosworth highlighted the importance of ensuring local communities benefit from renewable developments, whether through cheaper power or a share in the development.
Responding to the findings, a Department for Energy Security and Net Zero spokesperson highlighted the significant growth in onshore wind power capacity and the increasing contribution of renewables to the energy mix. They emphasized ongoing efforts to support clean energy, including record investments in offshore wind.
In the face of mounting climate challenges, the call for a comprehensive climate plan to unlock the potential of renewable energy sources resonates strongly, underlining the urgency for decisive action from policymakers.