Leading chartered surveyor Bruton Knowles has welcomed the UK Government’s recent announcement of a historic commitment to clean, affordable energy.

Funding has been awarded to 131 new green infrastructure projects, marking a significant milestone in the country’s mission to become a global clean energy superpower.

The commitment has seen the green light given to offshore wind farm projects, a record number of solar developments, and the world’s largest commercial-scale floating offshore wind farm, as the new Government’s strategy to achieve energy security and independence by 2030 takes shape.

Head of National Utilities & Infrastructure North for Bruton Knowles, Nigel Billingsley, said the news was just what was needed to kickstart the green economy: “This announcement from the Government to committing to a record pipeline of clean energy projects is a landmark achievement.

“As chartered surveyors, we are at the forefront of supporting these infrastructure developments, ensuring that they not only meet regulatory standards but also deliver tangible benefits to local communities and the economy at large.

“The positive impact of these projects on the rural economy will be felt, with the expansion of renewable energy creating numerous opportunities across Britain’s industrial heartlands and rural communities. The beauty of this announcement is that the ripple effects will be felt nationwide, fostering green economic growth from the Scottish Highlands to the Suffolk coast.”

The headline statement is the Government’s decision to increase the renewable energy project budget 50% - to play a crucial role in revitalising the offshore wind sector.

This was evident via the nine offshore wind contracts awarded, including Europe’s largest and second-largest wind farms, Hornsea 3 and Hornsea 4, located off the Yorkshire coast. These projects, alongside the largest commercial floating offshore wind project in the world, Green Volt, represent a significant advancement in the UK’s renewable energy capabilities.

Nigel added: “Offshore wind has long been regarded as the backbone of the UK’s clean energy mission. The revitalisation of this sector, supported by substantial government funding, is a testament to the UK’s commitment to lead the way in renewable energy.

“As these projects come to fruition, they will not only contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions but will also help protect consumers from volatile fossil fuel prices, providing a more stable and affordable energy supply.”

The new clean energy projects are set to deliver power at costs significantly below the maximum price cap set, ensuring value for money and lower costs for consumers.

This aligns with the government's objective to reduce household energy bills while also contributing to the country's energy independence. The Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, through which funding is awarded, is designed to minimise costs to billpayers.

Nigel added that a future in which the UK controls its energy destiny, was ultimately one that was most desirable: “We need to see the Government continue to work closely with the energy industry to further expand the Contracts for Difference system and other energy policies.

“The acceleration of more renewable energy projects to the National Grid is critical, as it will enable the country to progress further in its clean power initiatives.

“Bruton Knowles remains committed to playing an integral role in supporting the delivery and success of these clean energy projects, with the 2030 goal just over five years away.”