Solar Power Generation Demolition Law

Do solar farms need planning permission?

Below this threshold, solar farms will require planning permission from the local planning authority (LPA); under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, LPAs are responsible for renewable and low carbon energy development of 50 MW or less installed capacity.

Do you need planning permission to install solar panels?

Current rules that require businesses to apply for planning permission if solar panels will generate more than one megawatt of electricity will also be scrapped, meaning organisations will be able to install more solar panels on rooftops without the delay and cost of applying for planning permission.

Can solar power help decarbonise the UK energy sector?

Co-written by Matthew Fox and Toby Yeates of Pinsent Masons. The central role envisaged for solar power generation in supporting the decarbonisation of the UK energy sector is reflected in a draft revised planning policy designed to shape decision making on major renewable energy projects.

Are solar farms considered a nationally significant infrastructure project?

Above a threshold (set out in Section 15 of the Planning Act 2008) of more than 50MW for onshore and more than 100 MW for offshore generation, solar farms will be treated as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, for which a Development Consent Order must be sought from the Secretary of State.

What will changes to UK planning policy mean for solar power plants?

Co-written by Tom Edwards of Pinsent Masons. Proposed changes to UK planning policy remove uncertainty about the priority given to the development of major solar power plants and will spur a greater number of ‘utility scale’ projects in the years ahead.

Who is responsible for a solar project in the UK?

Solar energy is expected to more than double by 2030 and will therefore continue to be a key part of the UK’s decarbonisation strategy. The main parties to solar projects will often include the: Developer (employer) – who obtains planning consent and finance for the project. Contractor – who is responsible for building the solar plant.