In a bold step toward accelerating the UK's clean energy ambitions, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has unveiled the nation’s first-ever onshore wind strategy. The new initiative aims to revitalise a sector that has seen nearly a decade of stagnation in England, setting a clear course to boost energy security and industrial growth.

Part of the government’s wider Plan for Change, the strategy outlines over 40 actions that could deliver up to 10 gigawatts (GW) of onshore wind capacity by 2030. It also holds the potential to generate around 45,000 jobs across engineering, construction, maintenance, and related industries.

“Rolling out more onshore wind is a no-brainer – it’s one of our cheapest technologies, quick to build, supports thousands of skilled jobs and can provide clean energy directly to the communities hosting it,” commented Energy Minister Michael Shanks. “After years of decline, we’re giving industry the tools to get building again, backing industrial renewal and secure, clean, homegrown energy through our Plan for Change.”

The strategy takes aim at key challenges that have slowed down progress in the sector. These include addressing conflicts with aviation and defence infrastructure, which are currently blocking an estimated 10 GW of potential projects, and updating planning systems with a more data-driven, streamlined approach. The repowering of older turbines is also on the agenda to maximise existing sites.

Incentives are being reinforced through proposals like the expansion of the Clean Industry Bonus to encourage investment in domestic supply chains, particularly in the UK’s industrial regions.

Local communities are expected to benefit as well. Updated guidance on voluntary community benefits includes proposed annual payments of £5,000 per megawatt of installed capacity—funds that could go toward improving local infrastructure or reducing residents’ energy bills.

“This strategy is focusing on overcoming barriers and challenges we face across the industry in the deployment of onshore wind while capturing the major socio-economic benefits it can bring to the environment and to local economies,” added Matthieu Hue, co-chair of the Onshore Wind Taskforce and CEO of EDF Power Solutions UK and Ireland.

“Together we are forging a path forward for onshore wind in Great Britain, and we are committed to ensuring a successful implementation through a new Onshore Wind Council, which will oversee the execution of the strategy. This is a critical part of making Britain a clean energy superpower and delivering energy security.”

The UK’s new strategy represents a decisive pivot towards low-cost, homegrown energy and could mark a defining chapter in the country’s journey to becoming a global clean energy leader.