There are 1,262 clean energy schemes that are awaiting construction despite having planning permission, the Local Government Association (LGA) has said.
Issues connecting to the national grid are causing delays of years, with some projects in Dorset being told they cannot be connected until 2036, according to the LGA.
The organisation said the Government should increase the pace at which energy schemes are connected to the national grid and support councils to develop local grids.
Despite the issues, the number of clean energy schemes granted planning permission by councils has doubled almost every year since 2018, according to the LGA.
Cllr Linda Taylor, environment spokesperson for the LGA, said: ‘Our transition to a secure and sustainable future relies on continued growth in renewable energy.
‘It’s fantastic to see a rapid rise in planning permissions for green energy projects. However, the numbers awaiting construction is concerning, with many pointing to delays in securing the grid infrastructure that connects solar panels to kettles.
‘It’s a big challenge and there is a huge effort underway. Councils want to play their full role but need the resources and powers for local energy plans to shape the grid investments so essential to a secure and sustainable future.’
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