NEW SOLAR planning rules on permitted development rights will mean more homeowners and businesses will be able to install solar panels on roofs without going through the planning system.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLHC) have changed the rules to avoid having to go through the planning system and waiting for a decision.

The change removes the 1MW restriction for industrial rooftop solar installations, typically on large commercial buildings such as warehouses and factories.

These lead to extra costs and delays, impeding the attainment of climate and energy security goals, while slowing economic growth and the reduction of energy bills.

The changes also means homes with flat roofs will be able to install panels without planning permission, bringing rules in line with those for businesses.

For solar installations other than on rooftops, the guidance is clear that where possible already developed land should be used. The changes also make it easier for panels to be installed in canopies above car parks, if they are over 10 metres away from people’s homes.

New Solar Planning Rules Welcomed

Solar Energy UK has welcomed the loosening of planning rules. The move follows lobbying by Solar Energy UK.

Chris Hewett, Chief Executive, Solar Energy UK 

Solar Energy UK Chief Executive, Chris Hewett, said: “The potential of installing solar power on large commercial rooftops is vast, its prospective capacity having been estimated at 15 gigawatts across the country. So eliminating one of the stumbling blocks on the way to fulfilling that opportunity is extremely welcome, helping to make British businesses more competitive by slashing energy bills, bolstering the economy and pushing us further towards net zero.”

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