The impact of the legal framework for the consents process on the rate of
development of offshore wind farms in England, and the achievement of targets
for renewable electricity generation have been reviewed. From the literature and
consulted stakeholders it was found that the complexity of the current consents
process has adversely affected the rate of development and the achievement of
renewable energy targets. Future projects will be subject to a different legal
framework for consents, under the Planning Act 2008 and the Marine and Coastal
Access Bill. From a comparison of process diagrams for the current and future
consents processes, it is concluded that the future process should be an
improvement. However, uncertainties remain about the detailed procedures and
operation of the future consenting authorities. The capacity and capability of
key stakeholders to meet their obligations have implications for the time frame
for the processes of applying for, and the granting of, consents. Furthermore
improved engagement from developers and clarity about the role of local
authorities are essential if progress is to be made. The need for a holistic and
strategic view of the industry, including associated development of the supply
chain and the transmission grid, is also highlighted. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All
rights reserved
