The UK currently has 14GW of onshore wind, which is set to grow to 20GW.
The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) has criticised the lack of governmental support for onshore wind, highlighting that by 2035 the shortfall in the rollout of the technology could cost each household £125.
It follows the release of the British Energy Security Strategy on 7 April, which – despite rumours that the government was set to triple onshore wind targets in the run-up to the document – provided little additional support or ambition for the technology.
This was met by disappointment from a number of groups, with many highlighting the broad public support – onshore wind is supported by 80% of the population, a figure that rises to 87% when households get cheaper bills due to local wind farms – and low cost of the technology.
Currently, the UK has 14GW of onshore wind; 8.5GW in Scotland, 2.9GW in England, 1.1GW in Wales and 1.2 GW in Northern Ireland, according to government data. Based on turbines currently under construction and projects that have received planning permission, this is set to rise to 20GW.