Ovo to Repower UK Wind Farms

Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 20, OVO, a UK energy supplier, has introduced OVO Renewables, a division dedicated to modernizing ageing onshore wind farms with advanced technology to extend their lifespan and enhance energy production.

The initial phase could provide up to 500MW, powering around 400,000 homes, aligning with the UK’s 2030 Clean Power Action Plan targeting 30GW of onshore wind capacity. Upgrading existing sites offers an efficient path to increase clean energy output.

In partnership with NextLife Energy, a specialist in investment and development, OVO will source, acquire, manage, and upgrade wind projects across the UK. David Buttress, OVO’s chief executive, stated: “Britain built some of the world’s first onshore wind farms, but many are now ageing fast. We’re creating a huge opportunity to unlock more clean, secure energy without the delays that come with building new sites. OVO Renewables has the potential to breathe new life into Britain’s green power infrastructure, delivering real benefits to customers and communities.”

OVO’s sister company, Kaluza, may facilitate direct green power supply to local communities. An OVO poll found 84% consumer support for upgrading wind farms with efficient, quieter technology, compared to 60% for new sites on undeveloped land.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: “This is a hugely exciting new venture from OVO, showcasing how the public and private sector are working in lockstep to end our reliance on unstable global gas markets with homegrown, clean power we control. Repowering existing wind farms will be a key part of how we build a cheaper, cleaner, more secure energy system.”

Lord Smith of Kelvin, NextLife Energy chair, noted: “Acquiring mid-life projects with the potential to repower means important generation capacity is not retired from our UK network. The launch of OVO Renewables and the partnership with NextLife Energy is an exciting opportunity for both businesses.”

The project enhances the UK’s sustainable energy infrastructure, supporting environmental and economic goals.