Impact of Delivering Clean Energy on Rural Land
May 2026
By Robert Stone BSc (Hons), MRICS FAAV, Agricultural Partner
As the UK Government pushes towards clean power by 2030 and net zero by 2050, the electricity network will need to be substantially modernised to facilitate this.
This will push away from fossil fuels to renewable resources, from solar panels, wind turbines and additional wind turbines on land to further battery storage sites and synchronous condensers which level the flow of electricity to allow a constant supply.
There will also be a transition away from gas coal-fired power stations, mainly in the Midlands, whereby electricity was pushed from the centre of the country to the outskirts via the existing network.
When that energy comes the ‘other way’, new schemes and infrastructure are required to push the electricity in from say Cornwall and Scotland, into Midlands’ towns and cities. Large amounts of infrastructure will require upgrading and modernisation to facilitate this.
In the South West with the Hinkley C Connection Project and erection of new T-pylons, we have seen the work/damage this causes agricultural land. Additional schemes will come, with every home probably requiring a 3-phase connection to a charging point for electric vehicles and most electricity networks in this area will need upgrading to allow for this.
This will impact all types of landowners. The Government have been making changes to Compulsory Power provisions and Grid reforms making it quicker and easier for network operators such as National Grid Transmission to gain access onto the land they require.
At GTH we have dealt extensively with the Hinkley C Connection Project and have substantial knowledge and experience in dealing with these types of schemes if/when these companies come knocking on Landowners’ doors.
For more information on our broad range of rural and professional services, or for bespoke advice in relation to your individual situation, please contact your local specialist rural agent or Robert Stone on 01278 765588 or [email protected].