Changes to the planning process in Scotland - Good news for businesses wanting to install Solar PV
The Scottish Government has announced that it will be easing permitted development rights (PDRs) for rooftop solar. Until now the majority of solar projects in Scotland over 50kW have required planning consent, adding to project timelines and cost.
These changes bring Scotland in line with England, who introduced similar amendments in 2023. These measures support the Scottish Government’s ambitions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2045 whilst also allowing consumers to access cheaper electricity.
The changes remove the upper limit of 50kW for roof mounted solar PV as well as relaxing restrictions for ground mounted solar panels, as long as they are within the curtilage of non-domestic buildings (up to 12 m2). Certain restrictions have also been relaxed for solar canopies in carparks, including removal of the requirement that these must be primarily for the purpose of powering electric vehicle chargers. Falling within a conservation area is no longer an absolute barrier but listed buildings and world heritage sites do still require planning consent.
Here's the Plan Business Development Director Annette Welch has welcomed the announcement: “We have been waiting for this amendment to be brought into legislation for some time. With energy prices remaining high, installing solar PV is one of the most effective ways of reducing the costs of running commercial buildings, so anything that makes the process of installing solar quicker and easier is to be welcomed”
The proposals are expected to come into effect on Friday 24th May 2024, subject to parliamentary scrutiny.
The Team at Here’s the Plan can help and advise with the install of solar PV. We can do a feasibility study, get quotes, project manage the install and help with funding options as well arranging metering and export contracts once your system is up and running.
Get in touch at the following:
☎️ 01738474630
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