At least one survey this year has shown majority support for wind-powered electricity generators based on land. So it was with some concern for supporters of green energy when they were informed earlier this month that a "repowering" rule built into the planning legislation in respect of wind turbines puts some installations in jeopardy starting next year. The rule requires that local authorities must renew permission for each wind farm after an initial 25-year life. At least two come up for renewal in 2023.
The main opposition to onshore wind comes from within the Conservative party. A previous Tory administration imposed a moratorium on new onshore development. The current prime minister is said to be in favour of removing this, but is facing considerable opposition from cabinet colleagues. Their motive is officially concern for rural amenities, but clearly pressure from the fossil-fuel lobby plays its part.
If this influence percolates down, we could see the anomalous position of a Conservative local council refusing to permit a wind farm to continue while the voters who put them in power are practically all in favour of its staying.
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