Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government on what timescales they expect a marine renewable consent can be achieved; and what specific steps they are taking to support a proportionate, streamlined and bespoke consenting process for marine renewables to accelerate the development and deployment of marine renewables within UK waters.

In February 2023 the Government published an Action Plan to deliver reforms to improve the planning system for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, which the Government is implementing. Five revised energy National Policy Statements, published in March 2023, are out for consultation.

Consenting time is around 20 months, although this varies depending on the specific circumstances. In the Action Plan, the Government outlined its intention to establish a fast-track consenting timeframe, which will be available for certain projects, where defined quality standards are met. Proposals for fast-track consenting, including for marine renewables, will be consulted on in spring 2023.