Feature

Preparing for change: Resistors help to get the most out of wind power

In January 2025, the UK Government announced new measures to unlock up to thirteen major wind projects as part of its Plan for Change. But with wind curtailment – the switching off of wind turbines – reaching record levels in 2024, how can we make the most of the energy generated? Here, Mike Torbitt, Managing Director of Cressall, explores the role that resistors can play in preventing the wastage of wind power.

02/05/2025 16:06:09

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The Government’s Plan for Change aims to modernise the ‘outdated and archaic’ infrastructure regulations to increase the pace at which offshore wind projects are constructed. In total, the measures could generate up to 16GW of electricity and around £20-30 billion of clean energy investment.

The announcement is promising, but much of the newly harnessed wind power could be wasted. Turbines are frequently turned off in periods of high wind, to protect the grid system from being overwhelmed by the power generated.

According to a report from electricity supplier Octopus, enough energy was wasted in the first nine months of 2024 to power two million UK homes for a year. Not only does wind curtailment limit the UK’s ability to transition fully to clean energy, but it also results in higher bills for consumers.

And the problem is growing — the costs of wind curtailment will reach £3.7 billion by 2030. As the UK continues to invest in wind power, it’s important that additional energy generated is put to good use. So, why is energy being wasted and how can this be prevented?

Read the full article in DPA's May 2025 issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.