Government botches offshore wind auction

Commenting on the failure of the UK government’s offshore wind auction, Mike Childs, Friends of the Earth’s head of policy, said:

“The failed offshore wind auction was highly predictable. The government has missed yet another open goal that would have boosted energy security and made household bills more affordable.

“Since energy bills shot up last year, ministers have refused to invest in home insulation, despite our housing stock being amongst the worst in Europe and failed to unleash the full potential of our vast onshore wind resources. This week’s wind reforms don’t go nearly far enough.

“Now it’s botched an auction that should have led to a boom in offshore wind with all the economic benefits this would bring. The new Secretary of State, Clare Coutinho needs to get a grip on her failing department – and quickly.”