The number of wind farms being built around Britain will continue to increase, the energy minister has insisted.

Over recent months there have been increasing protests from residents in many of the areas where the largest developments are being planned.

While the renewable energy source is backed by the government for its role in reducing Britain's carbon dioxide emissions, critics say scores of the towering turbines can spoil the landscape of the rural areas where they are predominantly being built.

But the government is seeking to ensure that at least 10 per cent of the UK's energy needs is met from renewable sources.

And speaking to BBC Radio on Wednesday, Malcolm Wicks dismissed the 'nimby' attitudes of those opposed to the developments.

The energy minister said opposition came from a "not in my back yard" mentality.

However, he added that an increasing proportion of the turbines, up to 700 by the end of the decade, could be built offshore where they face less opposition.

"It's a genuine target and I think we are going to have to redouble our efforts to reach it," Wicks said.

"Although 'renewables' covers a range of technologies - wind, tidal, solar - much of what we are talking about at the moment are the wind turbines, and to reach that target of 10 per cent means we are heavily relying on that kind of technology."

He also called for "a proper well-informed public debate about all aspects of energy".

"Opinion poll data suggests overall public support for wind power, but it is one of those 'not in my back yard' things.

"When there is a plan in a community for wind turbines, some people - not all - oppose them."