Infrastructure Planning (Onshore Wind and Solar Generation) Order 2025

What happened: On 2 April 2025, the House of Commons voted on the Infrastructure Planning (Onshore Wind and Solar Generation) Order 2025, a statutory instrument (a type of secondary legislation that does not require a full bill process) designed to streamline planning approval for onshore wind and solar energy projects. The Order passed by 307 votes to 100.

Why it matters: The Order reduces planning barriers for onshore wind and solar developments by adjusting the thresholds and processes under which such projects require approval as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects. In practical terms, this means more renewable energy schemes can proceed through faster planning routes, supporting the government's ambition to expand clean energy capacity. Critics argue the changes reduce the ability of local communities and local planning authorities to scrutinise and influence decisions about large energy projects in their areas.

The politics: The vote divided largely along party lines. All 271 Labour MPs and 29 Labour and Co-operative MPs who voted did so in favour, as did all three Green MPs and six Independents. All 93 voting Conservatives, all three DUP MPs, all three Reform UK MPs, and the Ulster Unionist MP voted against. No party produced notable rebels. The vote sits within a broader pattern of the Labour government pushing through a suite of energy and planning reforms, including related divisions on the Great British Energy Bill and Contracts for Difference regulations, all aimed at accelerating the transition to renewable power.