The project, situated on a 2,352-hectare moorland site characterized by blanket bog and peatland, no longer includes a co-located solar component. However, CWFL is exploring the inclusion of a battery energy storage system to enhance energy reliability. The site encompasses areas linked to the South Pennine Moors and holds historical and cultural significance, particularly associated with the Bronte family.
A six-week non-statutory public consultation began in April 2025, inviting community feedback to shape the project before a formal development consent application is submitted to the UK government in early 2026. The consultation includes in-person events at Hebden Bridge Town Hall on May 13, Oxenhope Community Centre on May 17, and Trawden Forest Community Centre on May 29, as well as an online webinar on May 21.
The project has been designated a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) by UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, aligning with anticipated legislative changes to include onshore wind farms exceeding 100MW in the NSIP framework by late 2025. This designation ensures a streamlined national permitting process, reflecting the project’s role in advancing the UK’s renewable energy goals.
CWFL emphasized: “Onshore wind can be compatible with these designations, and we are undertaking further assessments to better understand the characteristics of the site in more detail and how Calderdale Energy Park will affect them.” The company also stated it is “committed to respecting the local historical and cultural features throughout the planning and development process.”
Sponsored by NextGen Infra, a subsidiary of Al Gihaz Holding, CWFL is majority-owned by a Saudi Arabia-based investment company, as per Companies House records. The Calderdale Energy Park is among the first onshore wind projects to progress following the UK government’s decision to lift restrictions on such developments, contributing to regional and national efforts to expand renewable energy capacity.
