The Welsh Assembly government has issued a number of proposals that would make it easier for individuals in the region to install small-scale energy generation equipment, such as solar panels or wind turbines, on their homes.
The aim of the consultation is to reduce the need for planning permission for such equipment, thereby enabling individuals and local communities to contribute to tackling climate change.
Jane Davidson, the Welsh minister for environment, sustainability and housing, said: I am putting forward these proposals to lift any potential barriers to allow for greater micro-generation in Wales.
I want to ensure that the planning framework is flexible enough to allow the level of change we need, and that we can use it to help deliver our ambitious agenda. In particular, I want to enable communities throughout Wales to generate their own renewable energy through local schemes, Ms Davidson continued.
The assembly said that views are being sought on proposed amendments to ‘permitted development’ regulations for domestic properties. The changes would mean that planning permission would not be required for micro-generation equipment, unless the proposals are of a scale or type that would have a clear impact beyond the householder’s own property.