Government considers wind farm payout scheme
James Kerr
27th August 2009
The Government is considering introducing a 'biodiversity offset' conservation scheme that could make it easier for wind farm developers to secure support for new developments from local residents.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is conducting research into conservation banking schemes that work in a similar way to Britain's carbon emissions trading mechanism. Under a conservation banking scheme, developers who affect wildlife habitats are required to purchase conservation credits – a 'payback' that helps fund alternative biodiversity projects.
Environment Minister Huw Irranca-Davies explains that the main focus of the Defra research is to ensure that development of infrastructure, such as wind farms, as well as housing, transport and alternative energy projects, protect the natural environment, and believes it needs to be considered alongside the development needs of UK businesses. "Biodiversity offsetting is a win-win situation because biodiversity gains are made alongside development," said the Minister.
The Defra research is considering similar schemes that have been successfully pioneered in the US and Australia. It is also looking at where biodiversity offsets could have additional benefits beyond those delivered by existing policies.
The research is of particular relevance to the future development of onshore wind farms in the UK, which have faced numerous planning objections. Onshore wind projects must gain planning approval from local councils, but at the moment many councils and local residents remain opposed to their construction.
Energy companies have said that planning delays and uncertainties have made it riskier to invest in the UK than in other countries, where planning approval can take less time, with more lucrative incentives for developers.
Encouragingly, the Defra research into conservation banking schemes is drawing support from the British Wind Energy Association as well as the Residents Against Turbine lobby group.
While no final decision has been made and more research will be undertaken, a spokesman for Defra commented: "This really is an interesting idea that could help developers while also improving protection for wildlife."