Green energy: new planning rules

Date:  09 April 2008

New rules allowing householders to install microgeneration equipment without needing to apply for planning permission came into effect on Sunday 6 April.

Microgeneration is the production of heat and/or electricity on a small scale from a low carbon source. Various technologies can be used including solar thermal and photovoltaic equipment, ground and water source heat pumps and biomass or combined heat and power systems.

The amendments to the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 relax rules for householders to install such equipment on most houses, although stricter controls will apply in Conservation Areas and for Listed Buildings.

More information is available on the Council’s website or by ringing 01923 776611 (minicom 01923 727 303).