BUREAU VERITAS ADVOCATES FOR ONSHORE WIND DEVELOPMENT TO SUPPORT OFFSHORE GROWTH

The UK is making significant strides towards achieving energy independence and includes ambitious plans outlined in the Government's Powering Up Britain strategy to double electricity generation capacity by the late 2030s, whilst also aiming to fully decarbonise the power sector by 2035. However, recent reports indicate a sharp decline in investment in clean energy and the low-carbon economy raising concerns about the achievability of these ambitious targets. With that, Bureau Veritas calls for increased support and commitment to onshore wind projects and will also be attending the Onshore Wind Conference event on 21st September.

The renewable energy landscape in the UK is a mix of successes and challenges. Offshore wind energy has experienced substantial growth, leading the Government to set targets of deploying up to 50GW of offshore wind energy by 2030, sufficient to power every home in the country. Part of the British Energy Security Strategy (BESS) includes a stipulation that 5GW of this target should come from floating offshore wind projects.

While offshore wind developments show promise, they alone cannot fully support the UK's journey to energy independence. Reliance on imported fossil fuels has led to energy price increases in the past year.

Onshore wind farms have faced challenges in the UK since planning laws were changed in 2015. However, the BESS commits the government to develop local partnerships for onshore wind in England, enabling communities to benefit directly from hosting onshore wind infrastructure.

Bureau Veritas highlights the importance of clarity on the future of onshore wind farm development. It believes that the supply chain must be well-prepared for potential escalation in demand.

While a complex and experienced supply chain exists for onshore wind development, the market has stagnated over the past eight years. Consequently, some suppliers have shifted their focus abroad or towards the offshore market.

The recent government consultation on the future of onshore wind farm development underscores the need to ensure the entire supply chain is ready to meet the demand. From steel fabrication to turbine manufacturing, every aspect must be prepared to support the advancement of offshore wind development.

Paul

Trevillyan

Global Director of Onshore Wind

Bureau Veritas

We believe that onshore wind development holds the key to unlocking the full potential of the UK's energy independence journey. As we strive to meet ambitious renewable energy targets, onshore wind projects must not be overlooked. At Bureau Veritas, we stand committed to supporting the energy transition and the renewable energy market by ensuring every element of the supply chain is prepared to meet the demand. By verifying conformity, achieving compliance, and optimising costs throughout all stages of onshore wind projects, we aim to help pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future for the UK.

Large-scale projects, including onshore wind developments, demand meticulous planning and robust engineering. Bureau Veritas is actively supporting the energy transition and the renewable energy market by helping clients achieve compliance and optimise costs effectively throughout all stages of onshore wind projects.

For further information on Bureau Veritas’s onshore wind services, please visit https://www.bureauveritas.co.uk/sustainability/onshore-wind

Or, download the onshore wind brochure