Masdar, a global clean energy leader, and Iberdrola, one of the world’s largest energy companies, have reached two major milestones with a €5.2 billion co-investment in the UK’s East Anglia THREE offshore wind farm – one of the largest offshore wind transactions of the decade – and the full energization
1Energy to bolster energy security and cut air pollution from buildings by 86%, project receives local support. The country’s leading low-carbon city heat network developer, 1Energy, has pledged £100m of private capital for a city-wide heat network for Derby at a high-profile event for the city’s leaders. This move follows the
The UK Government has granted development consent for the £4.8 billion Mona offshore wind farm, a major renewable energy project to be built in the Irish Sea. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has officially signed off the development consent order for the project, which will be located entirely within Welsh waters.
Advanced construction technology specialist, SITECH UK & Ireland, has played a major role in supporting Hunter Environmental, a division of Hunter Plant Hire, during the delivery of complex infrastructure works for a major renewable energy scheme in Worcestershire. The project, a 132kV substation at the JBM Doverdale Solar Farm, is
Construction company Hobson & Porter has won a major decarbonisation and stock condition works contract with East Riding of Yorkshire Council, which will see the firm install the latest sustainable technology and refurbish hundreds of homes and buildings each year. The work will be worth approximately £15million over a four-year
In a significant boost for the UK’s clean energy ambitions, Inyanga Marine Energy Group has awarded a key fabrication contract to Hutchinson Engineering for its pioneering HydroWing tidal energy device. Set to be deployed at Morlais, off the coast of Anglesey (Ynys Môn), the 20 MW HydroWing array forms part
New Uswitch analysis of government data has revealed the UK’s top-performing local authorities for renewable energy generation per household, with Moray in Scotland emerging as the national leader. Table 1: Top ten local authorities with the largest renewable energy capacity in megawatts per 1,000 households Rank Local authority Capacity in
Aggreko is bringing its expertise and innovative technologies to Formula 1’s European races this summer, delivering sustainable power as ‘Official Temporary Power Solutions Provider’. A centralised low-carbon power solution for all event services, including the paddock and International Broadcast Compound has been developed in collaboration with Formula 1® using data
Savills Earth Capital Advisory, on behalf of Caerphilly County Borough Council, is launching the sale of Cwm Ifor Solar Farm, which provides an opportunity to buy the development rights to a ready-to-build (RTB) solar PV scheme. Situated just outside Caerphilly, the proposed C. 20 MW farm secured planning permission in
Ofgem’s recently announced reform to accelerate grid connections for new green energy projects is opening up substantial income opportunities for landowners across the UK, says Keir Doe, Managing Director of Renewables Connect, an innovative all-agency platform which ‘matchmakes’ landowners with renewables developers. The platform, which has been dubbed the ‘Tinder
Masdar, a global clean energy leader, and Iberdrola, one of the world’s largest energy companies, have reached two major milestones with a €5.2 billion co-investment in the UK’s East Anglia THREE offshore wind farm – one of the largest offshore wind transactions of the decade – and the full energization of their 476MW Baltic Eagle project in Germany. These developments mark significant progress in delivering Europe and the UK’s offshore wind targets and advancing the companies’ €15 billion strategic partnership to accelerate clean energy deployment across key markets including the UK, Germany, and the US. Signed in December 2023, the Masdar–Iberdrola partnership is one of the largest bilateral alliances in the global clean energy sector. Together, these projects accelerate Europe’s offshore wind build-out and underscore Masdar and Iberdrola’s commitment to tripling global renewable capacity by 2030. East Anglia THREE co-investment agreement in the UK Masdar and Iberdrola will co-invest in the 1.4GW East Anglia THREE wind farm in the UK, in one of the largest offshore wind transactions of the decade. Under the agreement, each company will have a 50% stake in and co-governance of the asset, which will be pivotal in advancing Europe’s ambitious offshore wind development targets. All the conditions precedent have been achieved and the transaction is expected to close shortly. In addition, on 9 July the project financing for East Anglia Three was signed for approximately £3.5 billion – around €4.1 billion euros – with 24 international banks. Oversubscribed by 40%, the facility is one of the largest ever such transactions. It will cover a substantial part of the total costs of the project, estimated at approximately €5.2 billion, without consolidating debt in any of the partners’ financial statements. Located off the Suffolk coast in the UK, East Anglia THREE will become one of the world’s two largest offshore wind farms when it comes into initial operation in Q4 2026, delivering enough clean energy to power 1.3 million British homes. The project benefits from long-term revenue security through a 15-year CPI-linked Contract for Difference (CfD) awarded in the UK Government’s AR4 and AR6 auctions, as well as a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Amazon signed in 2024. Over 2,300 jobs are expected to be created during construction, with 100 long-term roles supported across its lifetime. Full energization of Baltic Eagle in Germany Masdar and Iberdrola have also celebrated the completion and full energization of the Baltic Eagle offshore wind farm in the German Baltic Sea. As the first project completed under the strategic partnership, the 476MW wind farm represents a major step forward in supporting Germany’s clean energy ambitions, reinforcing both companies’ leadership in renewable energy development. It will supply around 475,000 households with renewable energy while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 800,000 tons per year. Baltic Eagle is the second of Iberdrola’s three major wind farm projects in Germany, along with Wikinger (350MW, in operation) and Windanker (315MW, in planning). Collectively, these offshore wind farms form Iberdrola’s Baltic Hub. Baltic Eagle is Masdar’s first project with Iberdrola, its first in Germany and resulted in the company’s largest ever euro-denominated financing. HE Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar said: “Masdar and Iberdrola are continuing to forge one of the largest and most powerful strategic clean energy partnerships to accelerate capacity growth in Europe and worldwide. Offshore wind will play a crucial role in the global energy transformation, and landmark developments like Baltic Eagle and East Anglia THREE are significant advances towards clean energy targets in major European nations. With demand surging due to exponential AI growth and the rise of emerging markets, projects such as these have never been more critical.” Ignacio Galán, Iberdrola’s Executive Chairman, said: “Today is an important landmark in our global partnership with Masdar. Partnerships such as this one are vital in accelerating energy security and competitiveness and working towards delivering ambitious climate targets. With Masdar, we have a partner who shares our vision and commitment. “Joining forces with Masdar in the East Anglia THREE offshore windfarm will allow Iberdrola to accelerate our strategic focus on the UK, where we are investing £24 billion to 2028 in transmission and distribution networks and in renewable energy, contributing to the delivery of the UK Government’s ambitious electrification plans. The completion of Baltic Eagle represents a new milestone in our partnership, reinforcing Iberdrola’s commitment to electrification and strengthening our presence in the Baltic Sea.” Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, said: “This landmark partnership underscores our commitment to driving Europe’s energy transformation and advancing global climate goals. Our strategic co-investments with Iberdrola in East Anglia THREE and Baltic Eagle demonstrate how ambitious cross-border partnerships can deliver transformative impact at scale. Together, we are setting a new benchmark for offshore wind collaboration, and we are looking forward to deepening this partnership as Europe accelerates its renewable energy targets. “Through this partnership, Masdar is reaffirming its long-standing commitment to the European energy transformation. From our roots in the UK since 2008 to our growing presence in Germany, we are proud to be part of some of the region’s most iconic renewable energy developments. Our co-investments in East Anglia THREE and Baltic Eagle exemplify how cross-border collaboration can accelerate impact at scale.” Masdar and Iberdrola will continue to jointly invest in future clean energy projects in Europe and in other markets. Work to identify other opportunities is already underway, with the anticipated total value of joint investments in offshore wind and green hydrogen as part of the partnership calculated at €15 billion. As Masdar advances towards its target of 100GW of global clean energy capacity by 2030, its European footprint continues to expand and – following its landmark acquisitions in 2024 of Saeta Yield in Spain and TERNA ENERGY in Greece – is expected to contribute up to 30GW of capacity and support the region’s clean energy goals. In addition to its partnership with Iberdrola, Masdar has invested in wind and solar projects across key
1Energy to bolster energy security and cut air pollution from buildings by 86%, project receives local support. The country’s leading low-carbon city heat network developer, 1Energy, has pledged £100m of private capital for a city-wide heat network for Derby at a high-profile event for the city’s leaders. This move follows the company securing £23m of investment into the project from the UK Government. Developed at no cost to the local community or council, the Derby Energy Network will cut city wide gas demand by around 7 per cent. It will supply the city with low-carbon heating via underground hot water pipes, using water source heat pumps to repurpose surplus heat from local businesses.1 1Energy could invest over £140m into the network as it grows.2 1Energy pledged its initial investment to the project at a high-profile event attended by Derby’s leaders, including Baggy Shanker MP, on the site of the world’s first factory late last week. The event saw the public and private sectors come together to further plans to deliver a more secure future for the city – to bolster energy security and innovation, create skilled jobs and apprenticeships, and future-proof essential infrastructure. Major organisations in the city, including Derby City Council, the Royal Derby and Florence Nightingale Hospitals, the University of Derby and Derby College, are working with 1Energy to advance the network, with plans to begin construction in 2026. The Derby Energy Network will enable the city to bolster energy security, cut costs for businesses3 and protect against sudden gas-related energy price hikes,4 with buildings being warmed by low-carbon heat rather than gas boilers. Additionally, some of Britain’s most innovative businesses, such as Rolls-Royce and SmartParc5 could soon be linked up via the project, extending the pioneering city’s leadership in the circular economy.6 Andrew Wettern, CEO of 1Energy, said: “Derby has long led the world in terms of innovation, from water networks to defence. We are delighted to bring long-term investment to the city and build on its rich industrial heritage, enabling leading businesses to play a key role in delivering a new utility model. “Home to world-renowned innovators, Derby is uniquely placed to lead the transition to a more secure energy future. Alongside transforming the city’s energy infrastructure, the Derby Energy Network will give businesses greater choice and long-term price certainty. All while unlocking economic, health and environmental benefits for the city, the region and the country. We are exciting to continue working with Derby’s trailblazers to develop the network.” As well as helping the UK achieve its energy security goals, the network will play a vital role in reducing air pollution, improving public health.7 It is projected to save around 20 tonnes of air pollutants that can cause respiratory problems8 – equivalent to taking 16,000 cars off the road for a year – by cutting pollutants from connected buildings by around 86 per cent. The network also expects to reduce carbon emissions by 19,200 tonnes through slashing emissions from buildings by up to 77 per cent. Baggy Shanker, Member of Parliament for Derby South, said: “The Derby Energy Network represents a huge opportunity for our city to deliver another cutting-edge project, continuing our long-standing leadership on innovation. By combining private capital and public investment, it will bring hundreds of millions of pounds into Derby. I see it playing a key role in boosting economic growth. “It is great to hear the project will also create hundreds of skilled local jobs, including apprenticeships. As a former apprentice myself, I know first-hand how transformative they can be.” Project fit for a ‘city of firsts’ Home to Britain’s first publicly owned water network, water-powered silk mill and planned public park, Derby has led the way in terms of devising innovative solutions to societal issues. However, heat remains one of our biggest challenges. Accounting for half the UK’s natural gas use, it is one of the main reasons our country remains reliant on imported fossil fuels and, as a result, vulnerable to sudden changes in international prices. It is also responsible for over a fifth (21 per cent) of air pollution, and 37 per cent of Britain’s total carbon emissions. Heat networks offer the lowest-cost, simplest, fastest route to addressing all these challenges at once, requiring the fewest retrofit measures.9 The Derby Energy Network provides the extra benefit of adding another element to the city’s leadership on engineering innovation. The project will also create and support hundreds of jobs, apprenticeships and supply chain opportunities locally – a key topic of discussion at last week’s event. Councilor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability at Derby City Council, said: “This is brilliant news for our city. 1Energy’s £100m investment in low-carbon heating will mark a transformative step forward for Derby – not only in our mission to tackle climate change by cutting carbon emissions, but also in fostering healthier, more resilient communities. This initiative will help to keep homes and buildings across Derby warm in a more sustainable way whilst delivering wider benefits, from improving air quality and reducing fuel poverty, to enhancing public health and wellbeing. This initiative will be a game changer for communities across Derby, and I look forward to working closely with 1Energy to deliver lasting benefits for Derby.” Aligned with the City’s pioneering spirit, 1Energy is the first company in the UK to use funding from institutional investors to build city-scale low-carbon heat networks. The company has ambitions to deploy £1bn in the next eight years into new projects across the country, leveraging best practices gleaned from delivering the Derby Energy Network alongside Britain’s most innovative businesses. Through reducing the use of gas, these networks will help bolster energy security, protect against energy price hikes and cut costs, and reduce public health costs.10 Phil Lovell, COO at SmartParc, said: “At SmartParc, we are pleased to be working with 1Energy Group, to jointly explore opportunities to provide low carbon heat to the Derby Energy Network. Collaboration opportunities offer greater scope to harness the work we’re already doing at SmartParc for the benefit of the wider city. “By harnessing innovative technologies and shared values, we’re contributing to a cleaner, greener Derby while supporting
The UK Government has granted development consent for the £4.8 billion Mona offshore wind farm, a major renewable energy project to be built in the Irish Sea. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has officially signed off the development consent order for the project, which will be located entirely within Welsh waters. The wind farm will be positioned approximately 28.8 km from the north coast of Wales, 46.9 km from the north-west coast of England, and 46.6 km from the Isle of Man. The project includes a landfall point near Llanddulas in Conwy, North Wales, with grid connection planned via the existing National Grid substation at Bodelwyddan in Denbighshire. Mona is being delivered by a joint venture between BP Alternative Energy Investments Limited and German energy company Energie Baden-Württemberg AG (EnBW). Front-end engineering design is being provided by Kent. Once completed, the development will feature up to 96 turbines capable of generating approximately 1.5GW of electricity – enough to power more than a million homes. The scheme will also include four offshore substation platforms up to 60 metres in height, along with a network of offshore interconnector, inter-array and export cables. The turbine rotor diameters will measure 320 metres, with a maximum blade tip height of 364 metres. The onshore infrastructure includes underground cabling and a new onshore substation to facilitate grid integration. The estimated £4.8bn cost encompasses all aspects of the development, including project management, financing, land acquisition, and construction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Advanced construction technology specialist, SITECH UK & Ireland, has played a major role in supporting Hunter Environmental, a division of Hunter Plant Hire, during the delivery of complex infrastructure works for a major renewable energy scheme in Worcestershire. The project, a 132kV substation at the JBM Doverdale Solar Farm, is now in its final stages, with only the retaining wall and dress stone finish remaining. Once complete, the substation will support the site’s connection to the National Grid. This connection will enable the transmission of clean energy to the grid, supporting the UK’s transition to renewable power. Hunter Environmental provides contract services, labour, landscaping and agriculture services across utilities, civil engineering and land remediation sectors. To support the Doverdale project, Hunter Environmental partnered with SITECH to deploy GPS-enabled dozers for high-accuracy grading and UAV drone technology for up-to-date site surveying. Liam Omalley, Director at Hunter Plant Hire, said: “With support from SITECH, the Doverdale project highlighted our capability in delivering technically demanding energy infrastructure. SITECH ensured our dozers were fully equipped with Trimble® machine control, and that our operators received full training as they began work with topsoil stripping and preparation, installing stone fill to create a stable working platform to support operations. “Trimble machine control technology helped our operators improve labour efficiency when laying reinforced concrete (RC) foundations, and during the integration of ducting and drainage systems. The centimetre-level accuracy of the technology was also a vital asset during the installation of a CESS tank and rainwater harvesting system to manage runoff and maximise sustainability. Another key element where the technology helped with vital precision was the construction of the NGED control room, designed to house critical operational and monitoring equipment for the substation. “The Trimble positioning systems provided the team with accurate 3D visualisations which improved visibility, safety and productivity in the installation of a 400m long 132kV cable route. This required accurate excavation, trenching and cable-pulling to establish a robust grid connection. Communications ducting and associated infrastructure were also laid to ensure operational connectivity.” The Doverdale 132kV substation is crucial to stepping down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines at the Doverdale Solar Farm to lower voltages for distribution. SITECH provided not just the technology but also comprehensive support and training, introducing Hunter Environmental to the Trimble Stratus platform for advanced UAV-based site monitoring. Phillip Matchett, Technical Sales Representative at SITECH UK & Ireland said: “We worked closely with Hunter Environmental to support them in choosing the right kit to meet the needs of the project, as well as setting up the machines and supporting operators in how to use it effectively. “By adopting high-quality drone surveying technology with Trimble Stratus, Hunter Environmental has been able to make use of real-time, accurate progress tracking, detailed site surveys and access to frequent volume data around stockpiles, excavations and other site features. The use of real-time positioning systems and automated machine control has also contributed to reduced fuel consumption and minimised material waste, alongside fewer reworks and improved accuracy. “Our partnership with Hunter Environmental, and the integration of digital tools with on-the-ground expertise, has helped ensure consistent quality, precision and safety on this project, which is all the more meaningful given it is an essential piece of infrastructure in supporting the UK’s transition to renewable energy.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction company Hobson & Porter has won a major decarbonisation and stock condition works contract with East Riding of Yorkshire Council, which will see the firm install the latest sustainable technology and refurbish hundreds of homes and buildings each year. The work will be worth approximately £15million over a four-year period and will see Hobson & Porter refurbishing around 200 council owned homes each year, and significantly improving their energy performance certificate (EPC) ratings to either B or C. The company will also work on homes that the council is currently buying to supplement its existing housing stock. Hobson & Porter has already been tasked with installing 1.5kWp‘in-roof’ solar panels on more than 20 residential streets as well as making efficiency upgrades to the loft spaces. Structural repairs will also be carried out alongside the full refurbishment of a mix of council owned buildings including offices, industrial units and storage depots. This will include replacing reinforced concrete floor slabs for insulated ones, rewiring, installing new heating systems, underpinning, drainage repairs and internal structural work. In addition, Hobson & Porter will be improving communal areas in assisted living schemes and apartment buildings, as well as refurbishing and demolishing a series of garage blocks. Sam Robertson, from Hobson & Porter, said: “East Riding of Yorkshire Council is a longstanding client so we’re very pleased to win this new contract. Having worked on East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s previous frameworks for the last seven years, I am happy we have been recognised as a key partner in delivering this latest scheme, which is testament to our team’s hard work and high standards of workmanship. “It’s particularly rewarding because it involves a wide variety of work, from refurbishing all types of homes, which will make a genuine difference to local people, through to installing the latest sustainable technology. All this will significantly improve the council’s property portfolio across a large swathe of East Yorkshire, as well as future-proofing buildings and homes for future generations of residents, staff and visitors.” Councillor Gary McMaster, East Riding of Yorkshire Council cabinet member for planning, housing and infrastructure, said: “This contract has been designed to ensure that as many of the homes and buildings that we own and run as possible can benefit from modern and sustainable technology. This will ensure that they are fit for purpose for many years to come and guarantees the most efficient and cost-effective use of resources.” Hobson & Porter has a longstanding relationship with East Riding of Yorkshire Council. The company recently started rebuilding two sheltered housing developments in Anlaby and Driffield, which will both offer a mix of one-and-two-bedroom flats with generous open-plan layouts. The homes will be adaptable to meet residents’ needs as they age, thereby helping them to live independently for longer. Hobson & Porter is also working on the energy efficiency-led refurbishment of two supported living developments in Hornsea. Once complete, Meregarth will offer 14, one bedroom apartments and Pybus Court, will provide 13, one and two bedroom apartments that all meet East Riding’s need for suitable supported housing. At the end of last year, Hobson & Porter completed work on a £3.3 million renovation programme at Champney Treasure House in Beverley, which included significant improvements to the much-loved museum, archives, café area, tower viewing point, gardens and art gallery. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a significant boost for the UK’s clean energy ambitions, Inyanga Marine Energy Group has awarded a key fabrication contract to Hutchinson Engineering for its pioneering HydroWing tidal energy device. Set to be deployed at Morlais, off the coast of Anglesey (Ynys Môn), the 20 MW HydroWing array forms part of one of Europe’s largest consented tidal energy projects. The first-of-its-kind device is scheduled for installation in early 2026 and is expected to mark a turning point for marine renewables in the UK. The fabrication contract covers the construction of the foundation frame and rear nacelle, essential components designed to endure the extreme conditions of the seabed environment. The 120-tonne frame will deliver 1.2 MW of energy per unit and is designed with a 25-year lifespan, taking future decommissioning into account. Manufacturing will be split between Hutchinson Engineering’s base in Cheshire and final assembly at a Welsh quayside location, supporting regional job creation and local supply chains. Richard Parkinson, chief executive of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, said: “Hutchinson Engineering have all the engineering expertise and ingenuity required to turn our innovative tidal stream technology concept into reality. The tidal energy scheme at Morlais is the largest of its kind in the world and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to prove the full potential of tidal energy, really putting Wales on the map as a global pioneer in renewable energy.” Steve Adams, managing director of Hutchinson Engineering, added: “We are extremely excited about winning the contract for this groundbreaking project. We pride ourselves on all our fabrications having a positive impact on the world and so this will be a flagship project for us. It is an opportunity to fabricate advanced technology that is expected to become a world leader in tidal energy.” The development also signals broader momentum for the Morlais initiative. Andy Billcliff, chief executive of Menter Môn Morlais, commented: “The award of the first fabrication contract is a significant milestone in our exciting journey to deliver tidal energy at Morlais, providing economic and sustainability benefits for Wales and the UK, as well as demonstrating the global commercial viability of tidal energy.” Earlier this month, the Welsh Government confirmed a £2 million equity investment in Inyanga Marine Energy Group, contributing to a wider funding round supporting the company’s international expansion, including projects in France, southeast Asia and Canada. Onshore infrastructure for the Morlais site, including a landfall substation and underground cabling, was completed by North Wales-based Jones Bros Civil Engineering in December 2023. As the world searches for sustainable energy solutions, this Welsh-led project positions the UK at the forefront of tidal power innovation, offering the promise of long-term environmental and economic returns. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New Uswitch analysis of government data has revealed the UK’s top-performing local authorities for renewable energy generation per household, with Moray in Scotland emerging as the national leader. Table 1: Top ten local authorities with the largest renewable energy capacity in megawatts per 1,000 households Rank Local authority Capacity in megawatts per 1,000 households 1 Moray 47.4 2 North East Lincolnshire 41.4 3 Boston 32.0 4 East Lothian 27.3 5 Highland 26.3 6 Lancaster 23.1 7 Dumfries and Galloway 18.9 8 North Norfolk 18.8 9 Argyll and Bute 17.3 10 East Suffolk 15.8 Moray leads the UK with 47.4 MW per 1,000 households, followed by North East Lincolnshire at 41.4 MW. Other notable regions include Boston (32.0 MW), East Lothian (27.3 MW), and Highland (26.3 MW). Scottish local authorities rank highly, reflecting a mix of strong investment and favourable conditions for wind power, such as higher wind speeds and suitable terrain. The data highlights how both geography and different local approaches play a role in shaping the UK’s renewable energy landscape. Areas with the most solar and wind power The UK regions with the highest solar, onshore, and offshore wind capacity per household (excluding other renewable sources due to data limitations). Solar photovoltaics: East Cambridgeshire leads with 4.4 MW per 1,000 households, followed by South Cambridgeshire (4.3 MW). Pembrokeshire and Torridge each generate 4.0 MW, with several rural areas making strong gains in solar capacity. Onshore wind: Highland tops the list with 18.3 MW per 1,000 households, followed by Dumfries and Galloway (13.1 MW) and South Ayrshire (12.7 MW), showcasing Scotland’s dominance in wind energy. Offshore wind: North East Lincolnshire leads with 40.4 MW per 1,000 homes, followed by Moray at 35.0 MW. Other key contributors include Boston and East Lothian, highlighting the importance of coastal regions in offshore wind generation. North East Lincolnshire’s growth is driven by major projects like the Hornsea Wind Farm series, Hornsea One and Two, with capacities of 1.2 GW and 1.4 GW respectively. They are the largest offshore wind farms in the world as part of Ørsted’s East Coast Hub in Grimsby. Table 2: Top ten local authorities with the largest growth in renewable energy capacity over 5 years (2018–2023) Rank Local authority Change in capacity over 5 years 1 North East Lincolnshire 1017% 2 Boston 985% 3 East Lothian 734% 4 Inverclyde 608% 5 Rugby 444% 6 Aberdeen City 437% 7 Sutton 273% 8 Hammersmith and Fulham 263% 9 Spelthorne 262% 10 Barnet 215% North East Lincolnshire leads with a 1,017% growth in renewable energy capacity from 2018 to 2023, followed by Boston (985%) and East Lothian (734%). Urban areas like Sutton, Hammersmith and Fulham, and Barnet also show substantial increases, reflecting rapid growth in both rural and urban renewable energy generation. Table 3: Five-year change in renewable energy types (2018–2023) Renewable energy type 5 year change (2023-2018) Offshore Wind 80.20% Municipal Solid Waste 37.10% Photovoltaics 24.30% Anaerobic Digestion 19.70% Onshore Wind 15.00% Sewage Gas 8.60% Plant Biomass 2.70% Hydro 0.70% Animal Biomass 0.00% Landfill Gas -0.30% Wave/Tidal -52.00% Methodology & Sources We took UK government data on renewable energy generation for the last 10 years and used it to calculate: Where local authority changes had taken place in the period covered data from the old authorities was grouped into the relevant new authority to allow for comparisons. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/regional-renewable-statistics Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Aggreko is bringing its expertise and innovative technologies to Formula 1’s European races this summer, delivering sustainable power as ‘Official Temporary Power Solutions Provider’. A centralised low-carbon power solution for all event services, including the paddock and International Broadcast Compound has been developed in collaboration with Formula 1® using data and insights across a number of races over the last two years. Aggreko’s expert teams will collaborate further to provide power solutions that support the sport’s commitment to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2030. Driving the seven-year global partnership is the two organisations’ shared commitment and their focus on delivering high performance results in three key areas of innovation, sustainability and technology. Leveraging its global track record of delivering high performance energy technologies and innovative thinking, Aggreko will be providing resilient, efficient, low emission solutions through its Greener Upgrades™ range which includes solar PV hybrid systems using Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Stage V generators fuelled with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). The success of this approach has already been demonstrated when a centralised energy solution was used at three races last year, including the FORMULA 1® AUSTRIAN GRAND PRIX. The solar PV, hybridised BESS and HVO-fuelled Stage V generator solution reduced the need for at least 30+ additional generators from other suppliers and reduced associated carbon emissions by >90% compared to the 2022 event. Similar results are expected in 2025. Data collected from last year’s trial is being used to optimise solutions for future races and contributes to Aggreko’s wider gathering of insights from its global fleet to deliver the best performance to industries worldwide. As companies globally look to navigate the energy transition and reduce their emissions, this type of valuable data will provide the insight of how best to implement bespoke solutions that meet energy needs and ESG goals. Collaborating closely with C&I customers to implement new, greener technologies is a central part of Aggreko’s sustainability framework, Energising Change™ which outlines how they are supporting customers through the energy transition. Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1®, said: “The delivery of our Net Zero by 2030 commitment is driven by new technologies and new ways of working. With Aggreko’s support, Formula 1 is taking another step to reduce emissions across the Paddock. The low carbon power solutions will be in action across our European events this year and will further support our drive to be Net Zero by 2030.” Robert Wells, Europe President and Head of Events at Aggreko, said: “Our partnership with Formula 1 is built on the strength of our shared vision and values. By improving performance in innovation, sustainability and technology through our work powering some of the sport’s supporting infrastructure, we are showcasing how bespoke solutions using our latest Greener Upgrades™ technologies can help meet ESG goals in a setting that is the ultimate test of performance. We’re proud to collaborate with Formula 1® on its global stage, setting a shining example of how large event operators can accelerate change by learning from this progressive approach in reducing emissions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Savills Earth Capital Advisory, on behalf of Caerphilly County Borough Council, is launching the sale of Cwm Ifor Solar Farm, which provides an opportunity to buy the development rights to a ready-to-build (RTB) solar PV scheme. Situated just outside Caerphilly, the proposed C. 20 MW farm secured planning permission in May 2024, with c. 81 acres of land under an option to lease. The project is expected to connect to the grid in December 2026, with the potential to generate enough clean energy to power approximately 6,000 homes annually. Henry Grant, Director, Savills Earth Capital Advisory, says, “This sale offers an excellent opportunity for investors to acquire a well-planned renewable energy project with substantial potential for positive impact. We anticipate strong interest from investors, community energy groups and public sector organisations and look forward to supporting Caerphilly County Borough Council throughout the process.” Cllr Jamie Pritchard, Caerphilly Councils Deputy Leader, adds, “This is an exciting and innovative initiative, which aims to help deliver our targets to lower carbon emissions and at the same time generate a financial return that can be reinvested into services, which is vital during the current challenges we face.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ofgem’s recently announced reform to accelerate grid connections for new green energy projects is opening up substantial income opportunities for landowners across the UK, says Keir Doe, Managing Director of Renewables Connect, an innovative all-agency platform which ‘matchmakes’ landowners with renewables developers. The platform, which has been dubbed the ‘Tinder for Renewables’, was launched last May and is free and no obligation for landowners – whether farmers, country estate owners or local councils – to list on. “We’ve seen lots of activity on the platform in recent weeks as this reform is creating opportunity for new – and some previously rejected – projects to get connected to the grid quickly,” says Keir, who farms near Errol in Perthshire and has his own land consultancy where he has seen renewables projects from both landowner and developer perspectives. “There’s been a major backlog preventing new projects connecting to the grid due to the traditional ‘first-come, first-served’ process. Some projects have connection dates of 10+ years. This reform will get rid of speculative ‘zombie’ projects that have been holding up the queue and prioritise new solar farms, wind turbines and battery storage that are ready and strategically placed for the grid. This is a great opportunity for landowners if they have some land that could secure a lucrative rental income from a renewable energy project.” This, combined with the drive for data centres and hydrogen power, which are powered by renewables, and changes to planning policy, means there is considerable potential for those with land. Projects that have previously been refused or deemed unviable may now be sought after by developers, adds Keir. “It doesn’t have to be one large area, it could be marginal land on the edge of a farm, estate or a town. These smaller parcels can create a critical mass in one region that can then become an investible project for a renewables developer.” Renewables Connect currently has more than 9,000 hectares of land listed on its platform, from Shetland to Cornwall. Its interactive digital map allows landowners to list land areas and for developers to view, filter, and assess their suitability for green energy projects including wind, solar or battery storage. Large areas of land are often attractive for developers, but the ‘co-location’ of neighbouring smaller parcels is where Renewables Connect can create matches that may not otherwise be obvious. “This has been a gamechanger,” explains Keir. “Not every landowner wants a large-scale project on their land, or to take productive arable land out of commission, but this allows for smaller and poorer quality parcels to become greater than the sum of their parts. It’s a win for both parties as it creates good passive income for the less productive land and forges greater potential for renewables projects.” Following the recent UK Government reports that average farm income has fallen significantly, this is an opportunity to diversify the business or can also help with succession planning, adds Keir: “Such a drastic drop in income is difficult for any business but this comes at a time when farm businesses are faced with additional cost pressures and tax increases. Rental income from renewable energy development can provide a steady, passive additional income stream. It’s free and quick to list on the Renewables Connect Platform and doesn’t tie you to anything. It may be the most profitable 10 minutes of a landowner’s year.” One of the biggest potential renewables growth areas is onshore wind, says Keir: “The demand for this and solar will also grow with the plans for data centres, large buildings which store and process data, and the investment in hydrogen technology, both of which need substantial renewable power sources.” In Scotland, where changes in the National Planning Framework 4 eased restrictions on the visual impact of renewables, previously refused wind farms may now be able to secure planning consent. Renewables Connect is also having positive discussions with local authorities: “We’re seeing increasing interest from councils who see the benefits of listing land to help generate income, reduce dependency on central budgets and deliver community benefit. Equally, projects like the recently approved community wind initiative on Arran are proving what’s possible and it’s something we could see replicated in other areas across the UK.” The grid reform is part of the UK’s ambition to decarbonise the national power supply by 2030, with the first wave of post-reform projects expected to be up and running in early 2026. “The UK will not meet its 2030 net-zero targets without a massive acceleration in renewable project delivery,” says Keir. “This starts with land and as a landowner, if you are keen you need to be actively promoting your land to let renewables developers know you are interested. This can be daunting, expensive and difficult to know where to start. That’s why we built Renewables Connect, to be a transparent, one-stop shop, free for landowners or their land agents to promote their sites and easy for developers to identify new opportunities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
