A government consultation could ease planning barriers on wind turbines, creating opportunities for farmers and landowners.
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is proposing a permitted development right (PDR) for a single small wind turbine on non-domestic sites. The consultation runs until 10 June 2026.
Under the plans, farms, businesses and public sector sites could install one turbine up to 30m high without a full planning application – provided they meet certain conditions on noise, visual impact and environmental limits.
The move forms part of efforts to remove planning barriers that have constrained onshore wind. DESNZ acknowledges schemes have been held back by high upfront costs, delays in planning and uncertainty in the approvals process.
A streamlined system could offer greater certainty for landowners and rural businesses looking to invest in renewable energy. The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) is assessing how the proposals would work in practice.
However, the PDR would not apply in protected landscapes, conservation areas or near listed buildings. It is likely that larger or multi-turbine schemes would still require full planning permission.
For many farms and diversified rural businesses, a single turbine could reduce reliance on grid electricity. High-energy users such as grain dryers, cold stores and workshops may see particular benefit, suggests the CLA.
The proposals could help cut long-term energy costs and support decarbonisation targets. But grid connectivity remains a constraint. Securing a connection from Distribution Network Operators can still take longer than planning approval.
The government says it is not proposing changes to domestic wind rules or allowing repowering under PDR. Instead, it is seeking further views on how to support community energy schemes.
The CLA is preparing a formal response, arguing the reforms could enable small-scale wind deployment with less administrative burden.