Wind Power
Our partnerships with landowners are essential to achieving Net Zero for the UK. By using your land, you can increase clean electricity generation, create lasting community impact and unlock new income opportunities.
What is Onshore Wind?
Onshore wind is a cornerstone of the renewable energy sector, harnessing the power of wind to generate clean, sustainable electricity. Unlike offshore wind farms, located at sea, onshore wind farms are established on land, making them more accessible and cost-effective to develop. By utilising a natural, inexhaustible resource, onshore wind energy helps reduce our reliance on foreign fossil fuels while contributing to a cleaner environment and a more sustainable future.
Cost-Effective Renewable Energy
Onshore wind is one of the most economical sources of renewable energy. With lower installation and maintenance costs compared to offshore projects, onshore wind farms deliver affordable clean energy to millions of homes and businesses. They provide a stable and predictable energy source, shielding consumers from fluctuating fossil fuel prices.
Minimal Environmental Footprint
Wind turbines have a small footprint, typically leaving over 90% of the land within project boundaries available for agriculture, grazing or natural habitats. Onshore wind farms produce no greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making them a vital tool in combating climate change.
Local Economic Benefits
Onshore wind projects drive economic growth in rural areas by creating jobs, supporting local supply chains, and providing long-term income to landowners. Community investment opportunities often arise, allowing local residents to share in the financial benefits of renewable energy development.
Scalable and Accessible Technology
Onshore wind technology is highly scalable, from single turbines capable of powering small communities to large wind farms contributing to national energy grids. With advancements in turbine design and efficiency, modern wind farms are more capable than ever, generating significant energy even at lower wind speeds.
Benefits of Generating Power from Onshore Wind
Wind energy is making a significant contribution to the “Energy Trilemma”; producing low-carbon, secure and affordable electricity. It generates electricity without emitting greenhouse gases, significantly reducing carbon footprints. Wind power is one of the most cost-effective renewable energy sources, offering stable energy prices compared to fossil fuels. Additionally, it utilises natural wind currents, ensuring a virtually limitless and free energy supply unaffected by foreign relations. The development of wind farms also stimulates local economies by creating jobs and fostering community development.
How Onshore Wind Benefits Landowners
Landowners partnering in wind energy projects unlock significant financial and environmental benefits. Leasing land for wind turbines provides a steady, long-term income while allowing the continued use of surrounding land for agriculture or other activities. Wind farms have a small physical footprint, minimising disruption to daily operations. By supporting wind projects, landowners play a vital role in advancing renewable energy goals, contributing to a cleaner environment and leaving a legacy of sustainability for future generations.
Technologies Behind Onshore Wind
Modern wind energy systems harness the power of wind through sophisticated technologies. Wind turbines convert kinetic energy from wind into mechanical energy, which is then transformed into electricity via generators. Advances in turbine design, such as taller towers and longer blades, increase efficiency and energy output. These innovations make wind power a reliable and scalable
Frequently Asked Questions about Wind
1. How much land is required for a wind farm?
Wind farms typically require around 75 acres per turbine for spacing, but the actual land impacted is minimal (perhaps 2-4 acres per turbine), allowing continued agricultural use.
2. What is the lifespan of a wind turbine?
Wind turbines generally have a lifespan of up to 30 years, with regular maintenance ensuring consistent performance.
3. Do wind farms make noise?
Modern turbines are designed to operate quietly, with noise levels at the nearest publicly accessible locations often comparable to those of a refrigerator.
4. Are wind farms safe for wildlife?
While wind turbines can impact birds and bats, proper siting and mitigation strategies significantly reduce these effects. Wind projects are also developed to promote local biodiversity and habitat enhancement.
5. Can I use my land for wind turbines and other activities?
Yes, the small footprint of wind turbines allows landowners to continue farming, grazing or other land uses around them.