edenseven are following trends in the renewable energy sector closely, as decarbonising the energy sector is vital for ensuring a sustainable future and achieving Net Zero.
Considering the recent DESNZ quarterly update of the renewable energy planning database, we have produced a consolidated summary of projects in the United Kingdom that have received planning permission. We will continue to release updates each quarter.
Key Insights:
In the 12 months to the end of Q3 2025, the UK approved 710 solar PV projects, up 6% year on year and the second-highest 12-month total ending Q3. These approvals will deliver a record 5,448 MW of solar capacity.
Offshore wind approvals doubled to 8 projects, set to deliver a record 9,900 MW. Meanwhile, onshore wind approvals fell to 42 projects, though total capacity rose to 1,039 MW, driven by larger average project sizes.
Number of projects granted planning permission in the last 12 months
Solar PV:
710 solar PV projects were granted planning permission, an increase of 6% compared with the previous 12 months.
Wind (onshore):
42 onshore wind projects were granted planning permission, a decrease of 13% compared with the previous 12 months.
Wind (offshore):
8 offshore wind projects were granted planning permission, an increase of 100% compared with the previous 12 months.
Total energy capacity of projects granted planning permission in the last 12 months
Solar PV:
The total energy capacity of solar PV projects granted planning permission was 5,448 MW, an increase of 43% compared with the previous 12 months.
Wind (onshore):
The total energy capacity of onshore wind projects granted planning permission was 1,039 MW, a decrease of 11% compared with the previous 12 months.
Wind (offshore):
The total energy capacity of offshore wind projects granted planning permission was 9,900 MW, an increase of 672% compared with the previous 12 months.
Average energy capacity of projects granted planning permission in the last 12 months
Solar PV:
The average energy capacity of solar PV projects granted planning permission was 8 MW, an increase of 33% compared with the previous 12 months.
Wind (onshore):
The average energy capacity of onshore wind projects granted planning permission was 25 MW, an increase of 25% compared with the previous 12 months.
Wind (offshore):
The average energy capacity of offshore wind projects granted planning permission was 1,238 MW, an increase of 286% compared with the previous 12 months.
Data source: DESNZ 2025 (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/renewable-energy-planning-database-monthly-extract)
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