02.2025

What are onshore renewables?

What are onshore renewables?

Onshore renewables refer to energy sources that are located on land and can be naturally replenished, such as sunlight, wind, rain, and geothermal heat. They harness natural processes to generate electricity, reducing the need for fossil fuels. These renewable energy sources are crucial for sustainable energy production. 

Solar panels, a key example of onshore renewables
Solar panels, a key example of onshore renewables alongside onshore wind

Why do we need onshore renewables?  

We need onshore renewables, such as onshore wind and solar PV to decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, which are finite and harmful to the environment, diversifying our energy supply. They produce clean energy, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change. Onshore renewables projects also create jobs in their development and operational phases, and across the supply chain. 

What are the challenges of onshore renewables? 

The challenges of onshore renewables include the initial cost of setting up infrastructure as it can high, however, over time the infrastructure pays back the initial investment cost, as well as creating energy independence and a diverse, secure power grid. 

Additionally, development of onshore renewables can face challenges around environmental and aesthetic concerns, such as the impact on local wildlife and landscape. However, project developers and site operators are trained to understand, avoid, and minimize these potential effects during all phases of construction and operation. 

See our portfolio of onshore and offshore renewables projects and platforms here.