UK - Onshore wind energy to power over 3 million homes by 2010

By 2010, the onshore wind industry will generate 50 per cent more electricity than previously predicted, and will have installed 6,000 megawatts (MW) of wind power capacity, generating almost 5% of UK electricity supply, avoiding up to 13 million tonnes of CO2 emissions and delivering nearly half of the Government’s 2010 renewable energy target, according to a report published by the British Wind Energy Association (BWEA) today (27 March 2006).

Onshore Wind: Powering Ahead, part of BWEA’s contribution to the Government’s Energy Review consultation, claims to be the most comprehensive and realistic assessment ever undertaken of the UK’s onshore wind industry.

The report takes into account potential barriers such as the planning process, decision-making and grid capability, to provide the most realistic assessment of onshore wind’s contribution to the energy mix by 2010. The results show that 2006 is a record year for the UK wind industry with 665 MW scheduled for completion by year end. Combined with currently operating capacity and existing consents, a total of 3,000 MW is already confirmed for delivery by 2010. This new research identifies a further 3,000 MW which is forecast to be consented and built by 2010, bringing the total to 6,000 MW.

It further concludes that:

· Onshore wind alone can deliver almost half of the Government’s 10 per cent renewable energy target by 2010

· The electricity generated will power 3.3 million homes, equivalent to the domestic population of London and Glasgow combined

· Scotland is expected to make the greatest contribution, benefiting from the best wind resource


The report goes on to say that by producing electricity from 6,000 MW of onshore wind energy, the UK will:

· Displace six million tonnes of coal burn in power stations and avoid 13 million tonnes of CO2 emissions

or

· Displace 2.9 billion cubic metres of gas, reducing imports, and avoiding six million tonnes of CO2 emissions

· Generate at least £4.2 billion from investment in the wind industry and contributions to business rates, local communities and landowners by 2020.

BWEA is now calling on the UK Government and the devolved administrations to maintain a positive and robust approach to planning policy and to urgently address delays to planning decisions which are spiralling towards three years, particularly in Scotland. Chris Tomlinson, BWEA’s Head of Onshore, said: “Onshore wind can play a hugely significant role in meeting renewable energy and climate change targets. Our research proves, very clearly, that onshore wind will deliver, bringing major benefits to the economy and the environment while securing our energy supplies. Wind is already firmly established as part of the UK’s energy mix and its continued expansion must be fully recognised in the Government’s Energy Review.”

The report is available from www.bwea.com and at the Executive Summary is attached for your convenience.