Changes to permitted development rights rules will mean homeowners and businesses will find the installation of solar panels easier
The changes hope to reduced the waiting time for the installation of solar panels, with a current estimated waiting time of eight weeks, according to the Government.
Those seeking to install solar panels on their roofs will no longer have to go through the planning system, with the aim to reduce emissions and increase uptake of greener energy technology across the UK.
Planning permission requirements have been scaled back
The changes will mean homes with flat roofs will be able to install panels without planning permission, bringing rules in line with those for businesses.
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.
The Government would prefer that where possible, already developed land should be used for solar panels, which is why the changes will make it easier for panels to be installed in canopies above car parks, as long as they are over ten metres away from people’s homes.
Faster solar panel installation will help the UK get to net zero
Housing and planning minister Lee Rowley MP said: “We must make sure our homes are fit for the future and can help us meet our net zero ambitions.
“By cutting red-tape in the planning system we can make sure homeowners and businesses can install solar panels without being held up by costly delays. Crucially, these permitted development rights are still subject to important conditions, including their use in conservation areas.”
Energy security and net zero Minister Graham Stuart MP said: “We are cutting through red tape to make it easier for businesses to install solar panels on their rooftops.
“Removing the 1MW restriction for industrial rooftop solar will help us meet our target of 70GW of solar power by 2035 while supporting hundreds of long-term skilled British jobs, bolstering our world-leading renewables sector and reducing bills for consumers with panels.”
