Looking ahead: working to slow climate change

Our work supports the sustainable development of renewable energy together with other measures to reduce or reverse carbon emissions

LUC is at the forefront of planning for renewable energy. We have advised government at all levels and statutory and non-statutory agencies on renewable energy policy for over 15 years.

We understand the issues surrounding renewable energy from our work on national strategic research studies, regional and local resource assessments, sustainable energy strategies, and site-level environmental impact assessments (EIAs).

We have prepared EIAs or LVIAs (Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments) for over 35 major wind farms proposals, and provided advice on community schemes. Our expertise is increasingly sought for the EIA of offshore wind farms and grid connections. We specialise in landscape sensitivity assessments, directing development to the most sustainable locations.

Our work is independent and robust. We are frequently called to give evidence at public inquiry and our involvement often continues into the construction phase.

We understand and promote the role of the natural environment in capturing and storing carbon – for example through better peatland management and the expansion of woodland.

Projects

Planning implications for renewables for the Welsh Assembly Government

Methodology for assessing renewable and low-carbon potential for DECC

Influencing the siting of energy crops in Devon to minimise adverse impacts on the landscape

Researching environmental impacts and best practice in bioenergy development for Wildlife and Countryside Link UK

Climate Change in Tower Hamlets

Examining the feasibility of developing bioenergy crops in Rotherham and Hinckley and Bosworth

Alnwick District renewable energy Supplementary Planning Document

Braes of Doune Wind Farm, Stirlingshire

EIA for the 152-turbine Clyde Windfarm (awarded grade A for objectivity when reviewed by IEMA)

A major integrated EIA of proposals to connect seven windfarms into the electricity transmission network in south west Scotland