Legislative changes expanding the range of environmental compensation measures available to offshore wind developers came into force in the United Kingdom on 21 May 2026. The reforms amend the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 and the Conservation of Offshore Marine Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.
Previously, developers faced strict limits on the types of compensation they could offer when projects had unavoidable impacts on protected sites. The new rules open a wider range of options, allowing measures to be more strategic and better matched to the scale of offshore wind ambitions. These could include protecting seabird nesting sites, reducing predator numbers near protected colonies, or funding the restoration of native oyster populations.
Marine Minister Emma Hardy said the reforms mean “we can also deliver real, lasting benefits for nature, from restoring native oyster beds to protecting seabird colonies for future generations.” Energy Minister Michael Shanks said the changes “will accelerate offshore wind while maintaining strong protections for our marine environment.”
RenewableUK described the changes as “major milestones which will cut delays and enable offshore wind developers to build vital new clean energy infrastructure significantly faster.” The government also published accompanying guidance to help developers understand how the new system works and how compensation will be monitored.
