Determinants of Wind Power Energy in the United Kingdom

Abstract: Today’s energy revolution proposes a pathway from conventional energy sources to more alternative and renewable energy sources in order to sustain energy supply, slow down climate change and promote political independence. As a result of this revolution most countries have to implement new technologies and ways to generate green energy and therefore ensure future energy supply. Since the late 20th century, the United Kingdom focuses on the energy source wind due to its perfect wind conditions on the Island. My study provides statistical tests to examine significant determinants that might influence the permission process for new windmill construction sites. I use the probit model to calculate the effects caused by changes in the installed capacities, employment rates, energy consumption levels, income levels and population density on the probability of attaining construction permission for new wind farms. My analysis shows that only capacity levels might play a significant role regarding the permission for new wind farm projects. The other variables play minor roles, meaning that employment rates, energy consumption levels, income levels and population density do affect the permission process of windmills but their impacts are not great enough to cause substantial changes.