The UK Government has announced major reforms to fast-track clean energy projects as part of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, aiming to achieve clean power by 2030. The bill will prioritise critical projects for grid connections, replacing the outdated ‘first come, first served’ system with a ‘first ready, first connected’ approach.
These changes will cut waiting times for new grid connections by up to seven years, unlocking £200 billion in investment and strengthening the UK’s energy security while protecting households from volatile fossil fuel prices.
Key Changes Under the Planning and Infrastructure Bill
- Priority grid connections for wind, solar, and nuclear projects, speeding up the transition to clean energy.
- Streamlined approvals for major infrastructure projects, reducing planning delays.
- New investment in long-duration energy storage (LDES) to enhance grid reliability.
- £2,500 electricity bill discounts for residents living near new pylons.
- Faster deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charge points through simplified street works regulations.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stated:
“For too long, energy projects have been delayed by an outdated planning system. This bill will fix that, ensuring Britain builds the infrastructure needed for an energy-secure future.”
Ending the ‘First Come, First Served’ Grid Connection System
Currently, clean energy projects face up to a 10-year wait for grid connections due to an inefficient queuing process. Under the new ‘first ready, first connected’ system:
Ready-to-go clean energy projects will be prioritised over speculative developments.
Connection waiting times will drop by up to seven years.
The system will accelerate energy transition and cut consumer bills.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasized:
“The only way to free Britain from dependence on fossil fuels is with clean, homegrown power. This bill removes unnecessary roadblocks, paving the way for a new era of clean energy.”
Speeding Up Planning Approvals for Clean Energy Projects
The bill aims to fast-track approvals for at least 150 major infrastructure projects this Parliament—nearly triple the number approved in the previous Parliament.
- Projects include:
- Onshore and offshore wind farms
- Solar power plants
- Hydrogen production and storage
- Electricity grids and nuclear power stations
- Carbon capture facilities
Additional Reforms to Boost Clean Energy
Longer generator commissioning periods – Offshore wind projects will get an extension from 18 to 27 months to avoid unnecessary delays.
Simplified legal processes – Unnecessary legal challenges against wind farms and nuclear plants will be fast-tracked or dismissed.
Updated planning policies every five years to align with government energy priorities.
These reforms will create thousands of jobs, drive economic growth, and accelerate the UK’s clean energy transition.
Support for Communities and Grid Infrastructure Expansion
To ensure local communities benefit from hosting energy infrastructure:
- Residents living within 500 metres of new pylons will receive up to £2,500 off electricity bills over 10 years.
- Planning delays for new clean energy projects in Scotland will be cut, while ensuring local voices are heard.
- Street works licences will be replaced with permits, making it easier and faster to install EV charge points.
These steps align with the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to:
Lower household energy bills
Boost investment in clean energy infrastructure
Create thousands of jobs across the UK
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is a landmark reform that will end years of unnecessary delays, prioritise clean energy projects, and make Britain more energy secure.
By streamlining approvals, modernising grid connections, and attracting billions in investment, this bill represents a bold step toward a cleaner, greener, and more energy-efficient future for the UK.
