The aim of the latest planning changes is to remove certain types of micro-generation equipment from requiring planning permission, making it easier for individuals and local communities install equipment that will contribute to tackling climate change and lower energy bills. There will be no requirement to pay planning fees, reducing the financial burden to homeowners
Environment, Sustainability & Housing Minister Jane Davidson said:
“Micro -generation has a major role to play in decarbonising energy supply and helping tackle climate change.
"Wales in particular has a large share of off gas-grid, hard to heat and hard to treat homes. In these cases, micro-generation can be the most effective method of removing people from fuel poverty and providing energy security.
“Households not only have an opportunity to minimise their carbon footprint and that of Wales, but also to reduce fuel bills and fuel poverty. These changes will enable householders to install certain types of domestic micro-generation equipment, including solar thermal panels, ground and water source heat pumps and flues associated with biomass and combined heat and power systems on, or within the boundary of houses and flats, subject to certain criteria.
“I am particularly pleased that we have gone further than the authorities in England by allowing stand alone solar panels up to the boundaries of properties, providing they satisfy certain height and highway criteria.”
These changes will come into effect from the beginning of September this year.
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