The UK government is exploring legal options to prevent Chinese-made turbines from being used in domestic wind farm projects, Foreign Secretary David Lammy told parliament on Tuesday.
Under the National Security and Investment Act 2021 (NSIA), the government has the authority to block acquisitions and investments in key sectors on national security grounds. Energy is one of 17 priority sectors covered by the legislation.
“Through the NSIA 2021, we have a robust framework to make individual decisions such as the one on Mingyang,” Lammy said, referring to the Chinese turbine manufacturer granted priority status by the Scottish government to build a factory. Mingyang has also been linked to a turbine supply deal for Flotation Energy and Vargronn’s 560 MW Green Volt floating wind farm off Scotland.
Lammy’s statement followed the conclusion of a government audit into the UK’s economic and security relationship with China. While much of the audit’s details remain confidential to protect national interests, Lammy said the government plans to invest £600 million in intelligence services and may tighten legislation related to national security.
The foreign secretary emphasized the complex economic ties between the two countries, noting China is the UK’s third-largest trading partner.
“The audit has provided ample evidence of the extent to which our economies are intertwined,” Lammy said. “Our approach will always be guided by the UK’s long-term economic growth priorities.”
The move has raised concerns among lawmakers over the role of Chinese companies in critical UK infrastructure amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
