The UK’s Onshore Wind Boom: A Promising Future for Clean Energy
The UK’s onshore wind energy sector is experiencing an exciting surge, with a new report from RenewableUK shedding light on just how far we’ve come. Over the past year, the pipeline of onshore wind projects—spanning everything from operational to under-construction and in-planning phases—has expanded by more than 4GW. That’s double the growth compared to the same period last year, signaling a turning point in our renewable energy journey.
4.2GW of New Capacity Can Power Nearly 3 Million Homes!
What does this mean for the UK’s energy landscape?
For starters, the 4.2GW increase since last September has pushed the UK’s total onshore wind capacity from 38.5GW to an impressive 42.7GW. To put this into context, this new capacity is enough to power nearly three million homes every year. That’s a significant leap from the previous 12-month period, where the pipeline only grew by 1.5GW.
Here at Quarta, we see these developments as a major step forward not only for the energy sector but for the entire nation. The additional 4.2GW of capacity underscores the potential of onshore wind as a key player in the UK’s energy mix, offering one of the most affordable sources of new power available today. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about enhancing energy security, reducing consumer bills, and moving closer to a sustainable future.
Scotland’s Wind Energy Surge: £3.44 Billion to the Economy!
Scotland, in particular, is leading the charge in this green energy revolution. The report reveals that 75% of the UK’s total onshore wind pipeline is located north of the border, where operational capacity has now reached 10GW, with over 630MW added just in the past year. This commitment to wind energy is more than just an environmental win—it’s a boost to the local economy, supporting over 12,000 jobs and contributing £3.44 billion.
At Quarta, we’re particularly interested in the future potential outlined in the report. If all current projects in the pipeline are completed on schedule, the UK could have up to 27.8GW of operational capacity by 2030. This forecast includes not only new developments but also the repowering of older projects with state-of-the-art turbines, ensuring we’re making the most of our wind resources.
27.8GW by 2030: The Future of Onshore Wind
Looking ahead, the UK could have up to 27.8GW of operational onshore wind capacity by 2030 if all current pipeline projects are completed as planned. This includes repowering older projects with state-of-the-art turbines, ensuring we’re maximizing our wind resources for a sustainable future.
30GW Milestone Achieved in 2024!
Looking ahead, the UK could have up to 27.8GW of operational onshore wind capacity by 2030 if all current pipeline projects are completed as planned. This includes repowering older projects with state-of-the-art turbines, ensuring we’re maximizing our wind resources for a sustainable future.
"Seize the Moment: Fast-Tracking Onshore Wind is Key" says RenewableUK’s James Robottom
James Robottom, head of policy at RenewableUK, highlights the importance of seizing this moment. He emphasises that while the UK’s onshore wind pipeline is robust, the key to success lies in accelerating project delivery. The industry is ready to meet this challenge, and 2024 has already marked significant milestones, including the recent achievement of 30GW of combined onshore and offshore wind capacity, boosted by the full operation of SSE’s Viking onshore wind farm.
Our Conclusion
As we look ahead to the Onshore Wind 2024 Conference in Edinburgh, there’s a sense of anticipation in the air. The UK’s onshore wind sector is not just growing—it’s thriving. And as we continue to invest in this clean, renewable resource, we’re not only contributing to the fight against climate change but also helping to build a more secure and sustainable energy future for all.