Work to create a greener energy infrastructure is going to affect many land owners and tenants across the UK and especially in Scotland where there are ambitious plans to increase renewable energy output from 13.8GW to 20GW by 2030.
It is important to remember that these opportunities will only come to fruition through significant upgrades to the electrical infrastructure. More substations, pylons, overhead pole lines and underground cables are needed to transmit and distribute the power once available. To facilitate this, there will be disruption to land. Several large projects are underway with many more in the pipeline so it is important to first look at protecting your land and business if there is a chance you will be affected.
As the new January 31st deadlines loom, there is a greater sense of urgency in the industry, creating opportunities for landowners and tenants willing to act, including wind, solar, battery storage and EV charging projects to name just a few.
New net zero timeline
To achieve the UK Government target of reaching Net Zero by 2050, we need a fivefold increase in infrastructure build than has been created in the last 30 years. The UK target was originally 2030, but the timeline has now changed to 2050 – a more reasonable deadline considering the huge amount of work required to achieve that goal at an estimated UK cost of £350 billion.
More investment
Iberola (the parent company of Scottish Power), announced it is doubling their already huge UK investment from a planned £12 billion, to £24 billion in the next 5 years. The UK market is the group’s largest investment destination, indicating the importance of opportunities in the development of greener energy provision.
National Grid reform (TMO4+) deadline extended
With such complexities, it is not surprising that the deadline for TMO4+ has been extended to 31st January. The principle of ‘first ready, first connected’ is prompting developers to secure land rights quickly to advance connection dates. With demand at an all-time high, developers are eager to reach agreements with landowners.
Protect your business where infrastructure projects cross your land
Developers/License holders have a lot to do between now and 2050 and we hope they will seek consensual agreements with landowners and occupiers before resorting to statutory powers.
It’s crucial that developers and licence holders seek consensual agreements with landowners, in some cases we are beginning to see greater use of statutory powers and that give us cause for concern. If notified about utility projects, take immediate steps to protect your land and income:
- Get involved at the outset– especially if a letter arrives outlining a proposed project.
- Do not sign anything until you have taken advice.
- Reasonable professional costs are likely to be covered by the utility company.
- Consider potential wider impacts and consequences.
- Mitigating losses – understand what it really means.
- Remember to record your time – it has a financial value.
- Make sure you know your rights.
NFU Scotland affinity partnership
A year ago we launched our affinity partnership with NFU Scotland. We have worked with NFU Scotland to deliver seminars across the country advising farmers on how to protect their land and businesses when faced with electrical infrastructure projects.
From discussions with attendees, it is clear that many farmers and landowners who may be affected, have not yet taken the opportunity to seek professional advice about their rights and entitlements.
If you think you may be affected by infrastructure issues, it is important to seek advice at the earliest stage possible. If you are an NFUS member, contact the dedicated helpline 0131 609 9717 for a free 15 minute consultation. Non-members can call the D&R office on 0131 449 6212.
