UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has granted planning permission for three major solar projects totaling 1350MW across England, signaling a significant step towards bolstering the country’s renewable energy capacity.
The Development Consent Order permits were awarded to PS Renewables and Tribus Clean Energy’s 500MW Sunnica, Windel Energy and Canadian Solar’s 350MW Mallard Pass, and Low Carbon’s 500MW Gate Burton projects.
Solar Energy UK chief executive Chris Hewett expressed satisfaction with the approvals, stating, “This is just the kind of clear leadership that will increase investor confidence and show that Britain is serious about tackling the climate emergency with the urgency that is needed.”
The decisions mark a swift action by the new Secretary of State in his first week following the UK general election, addressing delays that had previously stalled progress under former Conservative energy secretary Claire Coutinho.
“A decision on Sunnica had initially been due last September but the call was delayed several times by former Conservative energy secretary Claire Coutinho,” noted Pinsent Masons partner Gareth Phillips. He added, “The speed at which the new government is acting…shows it is intent on clearing the backlog of infrastructure planning applications.”
Managing director of UK development at Low Carbon Mike Rutgers emphasized the importance of timely decision-making, stating, “This provides a clear signal to investors and the supply chain that the government is serious about giving priority to energy projects in the planning system.”
Pinsent Masons partner Richard Griffiths highlighted the impact of these decisions on the solar industry, saying, “These decisions send a clear signal of intent to the market that the UK is open to investment for major new renewables projects.”
