UK Greenlights 1350MW Solar Projects in a Major Renewable Energy Push
In a significant move for renewable energy in the UK, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has awarded planning permission for a trio of solar projects, totaling 1350MW, across England. This landmark decision sees Development Consent Order permits issued for PS Renewables and Tribus Clean Energy’s 500MW Sunnica, Windel Energy and Canadian Solar’s 350MW Mallard Pass, and Low Carbon’s 500MW Gate Burton.
A New Era for Solar Energy
Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, expressed his enthusiasm for the approval, especially noting the swift action taken by the new Secretary of State in his first week in office following the UK general election. “This is just the kind of clear leadership that will increase investor confidence and show that Britain is serious about tackling the climate emergency with the urgency that is needed,” Hewett remarked.
Overcoming Delays
The decision on Sunnica had faced several delays, initially scheduled for last September but postponed multiple times by former Conservative Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho, who also delayed decisions on Mallard Pass. The prompt action by the new government is a welcome change, according to Pinsent Masons partner Gareth Phillips, who highlighted the importance of clearing the backlog of infrastructure planning applications.
Investor Confidence Restored
Mike Rutgers, Managing Director of UK Development at Low Carbon, emphasized the importance of timely decision-making for the success of clean energy infrastructure. “After months of political indecision on key projects, this provides a clear signal to investors and the supply chain that the government is serious about giving priority to energy projects in the planning system,” he said.
Pinsent Masons partner Richard Griffiths added, “These decisions send a clear signal of intent to the market that the UK is open to investment for major new renewables projects. The solar industry has been awaiting these decisions for quite a while. Now they have arrived, they will have a bearing on the projects that follow.”
A Bright Future Ahead
This decisive move by the UK government marks a new chapter for the solar energy sector, showcasing a commitment to tackling climate change and encouraging substantial investment in renewable energy projects. With these approvals, the UK is poised to make significant strides towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Stay tuned as these projects progress and continue to shape the renewable energy landscape in the UK.
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Credit: [Image: Unsplash/Andres Siimon]