The majority of existing onshore wind farms in the UK are anticipated to come to the end of their operational life by 2040 (representing 9GW out of c14GW of existing output). The UK Government’s 2030 target to increase output from onshore wind to 30GW would be significantly affected if all these projects were to decommission.
Developers will need to make decisions on how to address end-of-life options sooner rather than later. In Scotland, due to the lack of suitable sites for new wind farms, repowering is expected to become increasingly important.
Extension of life of a wind farm requires the continued maintenance of the existing infrastructure and would represent less capital expense.
Partial repowering may involve the replacement of turbines, blades and generation equipment while maintaining the existing towers and foundations.
In Scotland repowering is expected to become increasingly important
In each case, a lifetime extension of any time-bound planning permission (and any related requirements) and of any lease would be required.
Early onshore wind farms were typically limited to a 25-year term to reflect a “temporary” and “reversible” character, although operators have more recently been negotiating longer time limits and extending these as it has become clear that well maintained turbines will often operate longer than expected.
Engagement with Distribution System Operation and the National Energy System Operator in respect of any increased export capacity will be a necessity. Addressing funding/finance requirements and early engagement with all stakeholders would also be key.
Additional considerations include whether co-located technologies (such as battery storage, PV or hydrogen generation) could be considered for the site as well as addressing community ownership opportunities.
DWF has broad experience across the energy sector and is available to support these discussions. Ewen Cairns (real estate), Steve McNab (planning/community ownership), Darren Walsh (projects), Brendan Slack (finance) and Jonathan Kirkwood (corporate) will be attending All-Energy in Glasgow on 13–14 May. Please get in touch or meet us there if you would like to connect or discuss opportunities.
Register for the All-Energy Exhibition and Conference, “celebrating 25 years as the UK’s leading clean and low-carbon energy event”, on 13-14 May 2026 at the SEC, Glasgow here.
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