Scottish Solar Energy had a major boost this week, as the latest update to the planning process now means that the majority of rooftop solar panel installations can proceed without needing planning permission, providing they are not on listed buildings or within world heritage sites, and this also applies to many projects in conservation areas.
Thomas McMillan, Chair of Solar Energy Scotland and Director at Savills, expressed his approval for the adjustments. He noted that after years of advocating for such reforms, the simplified planning procedure for rooftop solar will greatly contribute to achieving Scotland’s goal of 6GW of solar energy by 2030. He also mentioned that with the ongoing high energy costs, solar energy is one of the most cost-effective methods to reduce energy bills for homes and businesses. The Scottish Government’s endorsement of this facilitation process is therefore very much welcomed.
These amendments bring Scottish regulations closer to those of England, where comparable changes were implemented on November 30, 2023. Despite this alignment, there are specific variances based on building types between the two countries. Consequently, it is essential to adhere to the particular planning guidelines of each nation to stay within the limits of what is considered permitted development for rooftop solar projects.
These reforms in both Scotland and England are designed to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles in the planning system, allowing property owners and businesses to install solar panels without unnecessary, expensive delays. In Scotland, these new permitted development rights are expanded to include free-standing solar panels up to 12 square meters for non-domestic buildings and also offer more flexibility regarding solar canopies for car parks, including the removal of the mandatory link to electric vehicle charging stations.
The necessary legal document was presented to the Scottish Parliament on Thursday, March 28, 2024. Pending parliamentary review, these changes are anticipated to be implemented on Friday, May 24, 2024.
