Kent Renewable Energy Resource and Opportunities Study

Kent County Council’s Renewable Energy Select Committee convened in 2010 to undertake an in-depth review of renewable energy provision and opportunities in the county. The select committee's report (PDF, 5mb) set out a series of recommendations, one of which is the development of a Renewable Energy Strategy for Kent.

In order to develop this strategy, a clear evidence base is needed. In 2008, consultants undertook a piece of work for the South East England Partnership Board to investigate the renewable energy resource for the region and support future planning. Although regional planning has now been abolished, the county council and partners have looked to explore further the Kent opportunities and resources identified in that study. 

In May 2011 Kent County Council commissioned AECOM to test and confirm the availability of renewable resources in the county and consider the likelihood of these resources being developed. AECOM were also asked to consider the role of different partners in their delivery and the wider community and economic benefits which can accrue from their deployment.

The study has now been completed and AECOM's findings and recommended actions are available below. The findings of the study, maps and recommendations do not represent the views of the county council on deployment of renewable energy at this stage. In this respect we will continue to work with partners and stakeholders to refine the recommendations and develop an achievable strategy and action plan for Kent.

The study has two parts, one providing an overview and action plan for Kent and the other providing the detailed evidence on which the recommended actions are based.

Read the full reports:

• Renewable Energy for Kent. Part 1: Overview and Action Plan, April 2012 updated version (PDF, 3051k)
• Renewable Energy for Kent. Part 2: Underpinning the Vision, April 2012 updated version (PDF, 18166k)

This study informs the delivery of key activities within the Kent Environment Strategy, which is a priority for Bold Steps for Kent. To find out more about renewable energy projects already happening across the Kent County Council and schools estate visit our renewable energy projects pages.

This work has been financed through ClimactRegions, an Interreg IVc project. Visit the project pages to find out more.