Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to accelerate clean energy projects in England and Wales by introducing planning reforms that would limit the scope of judicial reviews. Under the proposals, parliament could designate key low-carbon energy projects as of 'critical national importance', providing a safeguard against legal challenges except on human rights grounds.
The Treasury announced the measures amid growing pressure to meet the UK's target of a virtually zero-carbon power system by 2030. Renewable energy developers have long complained about delays in gaining planning permission and grid connections, which have hindered project delivery.
A Treasury spokesperson said vital infrastructure had been 'delayed by judicial reviews of projects the country needs', adding that the chancellor 'won't stand for it any longer' and is bringing forward 'bold changes' to support delivery. The reforms aim to get Britain building power plants, windfarms, and grid connections to lower bills and strengthen energy security.
The changes would not apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where planning is devolved. For other infrastructure like transport and water, the government will introduce a fixed legal challenge window, after which planning consent could be updated to address legitimate issues.
Martin Pibworth, chief executive of SSE, said speeding up clean power and grid projects matters because delays have a real cost, leaving families exposed to volatile gas prices. The Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) described the move as 'the right thing to do if we are serious about growth, energy security and getting Britain building again'.
