The new measures are designed to facilitate the approval of onshore wind farm projects in England.
Relaxation of rules for onshore wind turbines in England: The voice of the local community strengthened
Greenpeace criticizes decision to grant new fossil fuel licenses in the UK
However, opposition to onshore wind power remains rooted in Conservative party beliefs, says Greenpeace.
The NGO is also critical of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s recent decision to authorize hundreds of new oil and gas exploration and production licenses in the North Sea.
While the UK is one of the world leaders in offshore wind turbines, Swedish group Vattenfall’s decision in July to halt development of a vast offshore wind project has dealt a blow to the country’s renewable energy ambitions.
Why does it matter?
The relaxation of rules for onshore wind turbines in the UK may have an impact on the transition to renewable energies. However, the government’s decision has drawn criticism for its commitment to fossil fuel reduction.