The UK government has introduced a plan to grant ministers the authority to approve large onshore wind farms, removing the decision-making power from local councils, which have historically been a significant source of opposition. This proposal is part of a broader action plan announced by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, aimed at achieving 95% clean energy in the UK by 2030.

As part of this plan, Miliband also seeks to empower the energy regulator to prioritize projects waiting to connect to the National Grid. However, Conservative Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security Claire Coutinho has criticized the plan, arguing that it will lead to increased energy bills.

The government's proposal involves bringing large onshore wind projects under the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project regime in England, similar to other energy infrastructure projects. This would give the government the final say in approving wind farm projects over 100MW, rather than local councils.

Coutinho has expressed concerns that the rushed decarbonization of the electricity system by 2030 will result in higher electricity prices and increased hardship for the British people. She emphasized the need for affordable and reliable energy, rather than higher bills.

In response, Miliband argued that the current reliance on gas makes consumers vulnerable to price fluctuations, suggesting that the proposed plan would provide a more stable and sustainable energy solution.