Jean Morrison, chair of Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group (AREG), has responded to the introduction of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.
She said: “AREG welcomes the UK Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill as a positive step towards accelerating the delivery of essential renewable infrastructure. The much-needed streamlining of planning processes for clean energy projects is crucial in meeting our net-zero goals and securing the country’s position as a global renewable energy leader.
The focus on cutting delays and prioritising the rapid deployment of renewable energy projects for grid connections will enable us to unlock growth potential. The ‘first ready, first connected’ system is fairer and will focus minds on those projects that can be producing more rapidly.
It’s important that we engage openly with communities and treat them with respect so it’s only right that those affected by pylons and other infrastructure benefit from the projects being delivered in their neighbourhoods.
We have too many ‘stuck’ projects, so it is encouraging that more action will be taken to throw out meritless legal challenges, which serve to bring progress to a halt. However, as we fast-track projects, it’s important we don’t compromise on environmental integrity. The introduction of a Nature Restoration Fund is a positive development, ensuring that the ecological needs of our landscapes are respected alongside the drive for industrial growth.
AREG will continue to work collaboratively with governments, developers, the supply chain and communities to ensure that the path forward takes us a step closer to our net zero and clean power targets.”