Householders wishing to install energy generating equipment, including solar panels, will no longer require planning permission under proposals announced today. A consultation has been launched on planning reforms aimed at increasing renewable energy generation and cutting emissions. Most householders currently wishing to install solar panels, heat pumps or wind turbines on existing buildings must apply to the local planning authority for consent. However, under the proposals, permission may be granted automatically under Permitted Development rights, provided that strict criteria are met. Mr Stevenson said: “We recently announced our intention to introduce a statutory target to reduce Scottish emissions by 80 per cent by 2050, as part of our proposals for Scotland’s first Climate Change Bill. Everyone has a part to play and the Scottish Government is providing strong leadership by reforming the planning system to encourage greater use of microgeneration equipment. This signals Scotland’s serious intent to lead the global effort to tackle climate change. The cost and time required to get planning consent can often be a disincentive to householders seeking to install microgeneration technologies.

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4 March 2008
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