The commitment by the new Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, to lift the onshore wind ban is set to ignite UK renewable investments.

That’s the view of business consultancy Hargreaves Lansdown, which has identified three ways property investors can get involved. 

The former Conservative government effectively banned onshore wind farms in 2015, allowing even a small number of objections to effectively scupper plans. This means that England’s onshore wind capacity has plateaued at some 3,000 megawatts, while France has over 22,000 MW and 61,000 MW. 

Èšara Irwin of Hargreaves Lansdown says: “Almost one-third of the electricity generated in Britain last year came from wind farms, a capacity capped by the ban on onshore wind. With the Labour government’s ambitious manifesto commitment to double onshore wind, triple solar power, and quadruple offshore wind by 2030, the UK is set to become a global leader in clean energy. This initiative promises fruitful returns for investors investing in renewable energy companies and funds as the market expands.
 
“The Chancellor’s announcement also includes a proposal to incorporate onshore wind projects into the nationally significant infrastructure projects regime. This change will streamline decision-making processes, enhance project approval efficiency, and attract substantial private sector investment. For retail investors, this presents a unique opportunity to participate in the burgeoning green energy market, with the potential for robust financial returns and portfolio diversification.

“Not only will the rollout of onshore wind farms increase low-cost energy, but it also offers a low-carbon alternative to help accelerate towards net zero goals. The Labour government’s pledge to ‘make Britain a clean energy superpower’ underscores a transformative vision for the UK’s energy landscape. By working with the private sector to bolster wind and solar capacities, investing in carbon capture and storage, and securing long-term energy storage solutions, the UK is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and resilient energy future. The strategy also includes reinforcing the nuclear sector, ensuring a phased transition in the North Sea, and introducing a carbon border adjustment mechanism to protect British industries.”

Critically, Irwin says: “Retail investors have a unique opportunity to support the UK’s journey towards a zero-carbon electricity system while enjoying the financial benefits of an industry set for growth. The end of the onshore wind ban marks a significant milestone in this journey, promising lower energy bills, enhanced energy security, and a greener future for all.”

The consultancy says there are three investment trusts for those wishing to invest in renewable energy: one is Greencoat UK wind (which invests in over 40 operating wind farms); the Renewables Infrastructure Group (which invests in companies and projects that produce clean electricity}; and the Gresham House Energy Storage trust (which invests in a portfolio of utility-scale operational battery energy storage systems across the UK.)