Research from Cornwall Insight’s Renewables Pipeline Tracker reveals there is ample evidence of developer appetite for future renewables investments in the UK.
The research highlights the total capacity of tracked sites in the pipeline stands at 38.7GW across 845 locations. The majority of projects are classed as ‘awaiting construction’, accounting for 22.9GW of the pipeline.
Lucy Dolton, Analyst at Cornwall Insight, said:
“Unsurprisingly, more established technologies such as battery storage, solar PV, onshore and offshore wind currently dominate those projects progressing to ‘awaiting construction’, but also to ‘under construction’ and ‘operational’ development statuses.
“Of the 38.7GW pipeline, the data shows 3.2GW have confirmed Transmission Entry Capacity (TEC) to connect to the system. A further 66% is forecasted to connect at the transmission level, if developed, with the remaining 33% at distribution level.
“Standalone battery is a key pipeline technology, accounting for the largest share by technology type in 8 out of 14 DNO regions, followed by solar PV. Offshore wind is expected to dominate transmission connections, but, notably, more large-scale onshore wind and even solar PV assets are likely to seek transmission connections. This is likely due to the economies of scale new sites are looking to achieve, especially those going subsidy-free.
“Integral to the development of the pipeline is the presence of confirmed routes to market. At present, our analysis indicates two confirmed Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), both of which are associated with subsidy-free solar projects. Ten sites have Corporate PPAs (CPPAs) associated with mostly rooftop and ground-mounted solar sites, with two major onshore wind developments recently added.”
About the Cornwall Insight Group
Cornwall Insight is the pre-eminent provider of research, analysis, consulting and training to businesses and stakeholders engaged in the Australian, Great British and Irish energy markets. To support our customers, we leverage a powerful combination of analytical capability, a detailed appreciation of regulation codes and policy frameworks, and a practical understanding of how markets function.
About the Renewables Pipeline Tracker
The service provides detailed information on future renewables generation assets, informed by our unrivalled market coverage and understanding of the regulatory, policy and commercial barriers these assets have to overcome.
