Solar energy planning and consenting in England and Wales: TCPA 1990 and PA 2008 routes, Welsh DNS/SIP, capacity thresholds, EIA/HRA, policy, permitted development, conditions and challenges

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Practice notes

What is solar energy generation?

Solar energy generation refers to converting sunlight into electrical power using solar panels made up of photovoltaic cells. When light lands on these cells it produces an electric field, which in turn drives an electrical current. Panels are usually placed on roofs or at ground level in locations with strong sunshine. Electricity produced can be used straight away or stored in batteries for later consumption.

Key elements of a solar scheme also include buried cabling, a substation linking the project to the national grid, and an access road or track so construction, decommissioning and maintenance vehicles can reach the site. As a renewable, sustainable option, solar has become popular for its ability to cut dependence on non-renewable sources, reduce carbon emissions, and lower energy costs over time. For practical guidance on solar projects across various jurisdictions, see the textbook: Solar Power: A Practical Handbook.

The planning regime for solar energy generation in England

Development of solar energy generating stations in England is consented via the following routes:

planning permission...

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Paul Maile

Eversheds Sutherland

Paul is a Partner specialising in planning, infrastructure and compulsory purchase and leads the Midlands Planning Team. He has appeared as advocate at numerous high profile public inquiries, and has a particular specialism in energy, infrastructure and residential projects. Paul's workload has included promoting the first onshore wind project requiring a Development Consent Order under the Planning Act 2008; advising on offshore wind projects coming forward under Round 3; promoting a major new reservoir to safeguard future drinking water supplies to the East Midlands; and securing consent for revised proposals to redevelop RAF Upper Heyford comprising over 1000 houses and commercial development.Paul's expertise covers all aspects of the planning process including application strategy, consultation requirements, Development Consent Orders, planning supporting statements, environmental impact assessment, representation at appeals, s106 Agreements, infrastructure agreements, compulsory purchase, town and village green...

Duncan Williams

Deloitte

Duncan specialises in all aspects of the planning process including promoting schemes through the planning system, s106 Agreements, infrastructure agreements, legal challenges / judicial review, planning appeals, advertising regulations, assets of community value and planning due diligence.He has particular expertise in the residential development sector where he is regularly instructed by national house builder clients. Recent highlights include a 1,200 house urban extension to Leighton Buzzard and a 2,300 dwelling development near Cirencester.In addition Duncan has extensive experience acting in the Energy Sector and on corporate transactions where recent notable instructions include helping secure consent for a 4 turbine wind farm near Port Talbot in Wales and on the acquisition of several large scale solar farms for investors.In respect of infrastructure projects Duncan advised Birmingham City Council on the planning aspects of their sale of the redeveloped Birmingham New Street Station, the recent sale of the...

Web page updated on 22/05/2026

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