UK Launches Strategy to Double Onshore Wind by 2030
The UK government has unveiled a major new plan to revive the country’s onshore wind sector, aiming to more than double capacity by 2030 after nearly a decade of stagnation in England. Published today, the strategy is described as a cornerstone of Britain’s mission to become a “clean energy superpower” and reduce reliance on volatile global gas markets.
Rolling out more than 40 policy actions, the government aims to unlock up to 10 GW of new onshore wind capacity and support as many as 45,000 jobs across construction, engineering, and maintenance. Energy Minister Michael Shanks called the move “a no-brainer,” citing onshore wind’s low cost, quick deployment, and ability to deliver reliable clean power directly to local communities.
From De-Facto Ban to Fast-Track Approval
For nearly nine years, new onshore wind development in England was effectively frozen under restrictive planning rules. That changed in 2023 when the government lifted the de facto ban and restored onshore wind’s eligibility under the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP) regime.
The new strategy builds on that momentum, placing onshore wind on equal footing with offshore wind and nuclear in the planning system. Key measures include:
Streamlining planning and environmental assessments to speed up project approvals
Repowering ageing turbines to extend and expand generation at existing sites
Resolving technical conflicts with aviation and defence radar infrastructure
Exploring a “clean industry bonus” to encourage investment in UK-based or low-emissions supply chains
Capacity & Targets: Onshore Wind’s Growth Challenge
The UK currently hosts around 16 GW of onshore wind capacity, including 14.8 GW in Great Britain. That’s closely matched by 15 GW of offshore wind now operating around the UK’s coastlines. However, according to the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, onshore capacity must rise to 27–29 GW by 2030 to help fully decarbonise the power sector.
The new strategy aims to close that gap by addressing long-standing barriers and accelerating project timelines. It’s also intended to channel a share of the £40 billion in clean energy investment announced since mid-2024 into new onshore developments and local supply chains.
Wind Power in the UK Energy Mix
Wind power continues to lead the UK’s renewable electricity generation. In 2024, wind supplied 30% of total electricity, making it the country’s largest renewable source. Overall, renewables provided 51.5% of UK electricity, including contributions from solar (5.5%), bioenergy (14%), and hydro (2%).
With both onshore and offshore wind now enjoying equal status in planning and infrastructure policy, the sector is positioned for rapid expansion in the second half of the decade. Ministers have framed it as a key lever for delivering energy security, climate goals, and long-term savings for households.
