– UK could produce 13-times more renewable electricity using less than 3% of its land
– Study finds 295,000 hectares of suitable land for solar and wind projects
– England could produce 2.5-times more electricity than needed for households with identified land
The University of Exeter conducted research commissioned by Friends of the Earth, finding that England could produce 13 times more renewable electricity using less than 3% of its land mass. The study identified 295,000 hectares of suitable land for solar and wind projects, which could generate significantly more renewable energy than the country’s current capacity.
The UK needs to scale up its renewable energy output to meet net-zero and climate targets, as stated by National Grid ESO. The country has fallen behind on climate targets, with a lack of action on clean energy and continued investment in fossil fuels. The government’s track record on renewables and energy security has been criticized, with a call for stronger and more ambitious climate plans to catch up with the global shift to a zero-carbon economy.
If all identified land is developed for onshore solar or wind projects, 2.5 times more electricity than needed to power all households in England could be produced. This immense potential for generating clean and affordable renewable energy is essential for reducing carbon emissions and lowering energy bills. There is a pressing need for political leaders to prioritize renewable energy and transition to a zero-carbon economy.