English onshore wind applications rise as sector rebuilds capacity

Applications for onshore wind projects in England have begun to increase significantly following the removal of a de facto ban on new development. Government data indicates that 45 applications were submitted in the year ending March 2026, marking a notable shift in activity levels. This growth comes two years after the Labour government assumed power in 2024 and moved to lift the restrictions that had been in place since 2015.

The first application for a new English wind farm since the ban was recorded in August 2025. This submission was made by Cubico for the 100MW Scout Moor II project in the South Pennine Moors. While industry sentiment towards the policy change is positive, the sector faces challenges stemming from a decade of lost progress. This hiatus has created an intelligence gap, resulting in a loss of institutional knowledge and potentially slower approval processes.

RenewableUK figures show that 233MW of applications were submitted into England’s planning system in 2025. This compares with 188MW submitted over the entire period from 2016 to 2024. A single onshore wind farm repowering project also received a contract for difference in 2024, offering a sign of recovery. However, experts warn that ensuring projects are located on viable sites is critical. Hans-Georg von Lewinski, managing director of Caeli, emphasised the need to identify the strongest opportunities and understand planning and grid constraints early to ensure deliverable outcomes.