Repowering Onshore Wind - Consenting Strategies

The image shows a wind farm with multiple wind turbines standing in an open field under a clear blue sky with some clouds.The image shows a wind farm with multiple wind turbines standing in an open field under a clear blue sky with some clouds.

Repowering Onshore Wind - Consenting Strategies

March 16, 2026

United Kingdom
United Kingdom
United Kingdom

As operational wind farms approach the end of their operational life, developers are faced with difficult decisions: decommission, life-extend or replace or upgrade old turbines with modern, higher-capacity technology.

The opportunity to take advantage of consenting hurdles already overcome at wind farm sites are set against the challenge of new technical and commercial constraints associated with the scale of infrastructure, and the complexity of a new environmental baseline.

The consenting legal and policy framework is playing catch up: how do we repower existing wind farm sites, sustain their contribution to wind energy deployment targets, and ultimately support the delivery of net zero objectives?
 
ReAmp’s Directors William Black and Alison Sidgwick, and James Gibson, Partner in Eversheds Sutherland’s Planning and Infrastructure Consenting practice, discuss the key policy considerations and the legal frameworks to inform repowering strategies.

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The materials on the Eversheds Sutherland website are for general information purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. While reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, the materials may not reflect the most current legal developments. Eversheds Sutherland disclaims liability for actions taken based on the materials. Always consult a qualified lawyer for specific legal matters. To view the full disclaimer, see our Terms and Conditions or Disclaimer section in the footer. Eversheds Sutherland is a provider of legal and other services operating through various separate and distinct legal entities. For further information about these entities and Eversheds Sutherlands' structure please see the Legal Notice page of this website.

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Jeraldine Fairclough

Associate

United Kingdom

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James Gibson

Partner

United Kingdom

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