UK renewables developer Ridge Clean Energy (RCE) is planning to build a new wind farm in Yorkshire.
Located next to the approved Three Oaks solar farm and battery storage system between Thornholme and Haisthorpe in the East Riding, this project would create a hybrid renewable energy park.
The Three Oaks Renewable Energy Park Extension would see a 25.2MW wind farm co-located alongside the solar and battery site.
RCE says its new proposal aligns with the Government’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan to develop homegrown energy that will reduce household bills, ensure the UK is energy independent, and make more efficient use of existing grid infrastructure.
Subject to planning permission, the wind turbines could be operational before 2030, generating as much clean electricity each year as is used by over 24,000 homes.
This project is among the first onshore wind developments to move forward in England following the July 2024 removal of the de facto national ban on onshore wind.
If approved, it would unlock a community benefit fund of £126,000 per year, equating to over £5 million over 40 years, including over £100,000 annually in local energy discounts for households near the site.
Much of this funding would be delivered to households nearest the project, who would receive over £1,000 per year towards their electricity bills, with further funding available for residential properties within 3km of the turbines.
RCE chief executive Marjorie Glasgow said: “We have greatly enjoyed working with the communities of Burton Agnes and Thornholme, and by adding turbines to the already-consented solar project, we know we can do so much more locally.
“By integrating wind and solar at the Three Oaks site, we are not only responding to the renewed political support for onshore wind. This extension represents a meaningful step toward carbon reduction and ensures that the local community is well-placed to claim the long-term benefits of the energy transition.”
Project manager Richard Barker added: “From the earliest stages of project development for the consented Three Oaks Renewable Energy Park, we have worked with landowners, local experts and the community to shape a scheme that reflects local priorities and answers local needs.
“We will continue this partnership work, and I look forward to further engagement on this exciting project.”
RenewableUK’s head of onshore wind James Robottom added: “Following hot on the heels of the Onshore Wind Taskforce Strategy published last week, this announcement is hugely welcome and exactly what the industry needs.
“It is also an example of the progress the Government is making towards Clean Power 2030, creating a regulatory environment where new opportunities for inward investment can be realised. It is really positive to see wind able to be part of an energy park project making the most efficient use of our land and resource and I am excited to see this taken forward.”