Overview

The Control of Offshore Wind Turbines Bill aims to restrict the construction of offshore wind turbines within 20 miles of the English and Welsh coast. The bill limits their height, number, proximity to other turbines and World Heritage sites, and also restricts government subsidies for electricity generated.

Description

This bill places several restrictions on offshore wind turbines within 20 miles of the English and Welsh coastline. These restrictions include:

• Location: No new turbines within 15 miles of the coast.
• Height: A maximum height of 100 meters above sea level within 20 miles of the coast.
• Number and Grouping: No more than 100 turbines in any one group, and groups must be at least 15 miles apart.
• Proximity to World Heritage Sites: No turbines within 20 miles of any World Heritage site.
• Subsidies: Government subsidies for electricity generated by new offshore turbines will be capped at the prevailing wholesale electricity price.

All distances are measured by a direct line from the turbine to the nearest point on the mainland. The bill applies only to England and Wales and comes into effect upon Royal Assent.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to reduce government spending on subsidies for offshore wind energy. The exact figure is not specified in the bill but it will likely reduce the amount of taxpayer money directed towards offshore wind energy projects exceeding the wholesale price of electricity.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Offshore wind energy companies: The bill could significantly impact their ability to develop new projects, particularly within 20 miles of the coast.
• Renewable energy investors: The restrictions on subsidies and project locations could reduce the profitability of investments in offshore wind.
• Coastal communities: Depending on the location and scale of the effects, local economies could be affected by reduced wind energy development and potentially by visual impacts.
• Environmental groups: The bill may affect environmental goals related to renewable energy and climate change mitigation.
• Taxpayers: The bill aims to reduce taxpayer spending on offshore wind energy subsidies.

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