As part of the Microgeneration Strategy, permitted planning for most onsite low carbon and renewable energy technologies was introduced in April 2008.
Under permitted planning householders individual planning applications are not required, within certain limits, if the development will not adversely affect the amenity of others.
Permitted planning
Homeowners who want to install solar PV, solar thermal, biomass or a ground source heat pump do not usually need to apply for planning permission. There are some restrictions, for example in conservation areas, and you can find full details on the Planning Portal website.
Planning permission
There are several energy technologies still subject to the planning process:
- Small scale hydro instllations
- Micro and small wind turbines
- Air source heat pumps
Installing small-scale hydro can affect rivers and wildlife, so you need to get planning permission. Contact the local authority and the
Environment Agency for further advice.
Issues affecting small and micro wind turbines and air source heat pumps are still being sorted out. An announcement on permitted planning is expected soon below certain noise levels. It is likely that installations of both wind turbines and air source heat pumps will need to be Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certificated for products and installers.
The Department for Communities and Local Government has recently consulted on a 45 decibel noise limit for permitted planning for wind turbines and air source heat pumps. No decision on permitted planning has yet been taken.