Onshore wind developer Bute Energy has spoken out in support of the Welsh and UK governments’ clean energy plans, but has warned planning barriers are slowing down the sector’s growth.
Following a visit by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and First Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan to Brechfa Forest wind farm today, the company said the administration should intervene to tackle skills shortages, supply chain issues, grid connections and especially obstacles to the consenting process.
Renewable UK Cymru has calculated renewable energy deployment rates need to quadruple in the next 10 years to meet the Welsh government’s target for 100% of the nation’s electricity to come from green sources by 2035.
Starmer’s administration has pledged to double the UK’s onshore wind capacity by 2030.
A spokesperson for Bute Energy said: “Bute Energy welcomes the Welsh and UK governments’ investment in onshore wind.
“We share their belief that Britain can become a clean energy superpower if we harness the full potential of renewables to deliver lower bills, energy security and economic growth.
“The Prime Minister and First Minister know the renewables sector will provide vital support for their plans.
“In turn, we need government to ensure the planning system has the capacity and resources to give consent to new projects and get Britain building.
“Increased delays at PEDW, including six-month delays to new applications for Developments of National Significance, show we need a new approach to stay on track and meet national targets.
“Bute Energy’s £3bn, 2GW onshore wind portfolio shows the scale of what we can achieve … We look forward to working with the Welsh and UK governments to secure a leading role for Wales in the green industrial revolution.”