Renewable projects – the opportunities
The Government’s National Energy System Operator (NESO) was created a year ago, tasked to fully reform the grid connection process and ensure deliverable projects are approved and progressed faster. NESO was to confirm their reforms to developers this summer, but delays mean that has not yet happened. As a consequence, there is a knock on effect for new energy development applications.
Planning and approval will be evaluated on quality and quantity, and whether developers have land rights secured with landowners and secure agricultural tenants. (Gate 2.) It means some landowners and land managers are still in limbo as a result of the delays, but in the longer term, the process should open up further opportunities for farmers.
More focus will be on wind (offshore and onshore), and solar energy generation sources because it is widely acknowledged that multiple renewable sources are needed. Offshore wind projects can take over a decade to go live, but onshore wind, and particularly solar projects, are quicker to set up. Greater emphasis will be placed on technological advances for solar projects across Scotland and England.
It’s no surprise that onshore wind is back in the frame in England, where an additional 1GW is in construction, but 27-29 GW of onshore energy is still needed to meet UK 2030 goals. It means there are still opportunities both sides of the border for landowners.
Renewable projects can take years to come to fruition, but the benefits to farming businesses can be transformational. We have been acting for clients in the renewable sector for over a quarter of a century, helping weigh up options and partnering with the right developer.
Renewable Energy and Infrastructure projects are intertwined, and the D&R team has decades of expertise to deal with both. The key message remains the same, take professional advice from Agents with considerable experience, and do not sign anything until you are fully aware of your rights and options.
For more information about renewable opportunities contact Ian Austin D&R Director on 0131 449 6212.
