Renewable energy for householders and businesses

These pages provide general advice to householders and businesses who wish to install renewable energy facilities.  They do not apply to large-scale or commercial proposals by power generators, which need to be discussed on an individual basis. 

We strongly support householders and businesses who wish to install renewable energy facilities and will help and advise where we can. 

When some form of permission is needed, we always try to grant that permission unless there is a clear overriding reason why we cannot.  When considering the impact of a proposal, we always take account of the sustainability benefits that come from renewable energy.  If, on some occasions, we conclude that the impact of your proposal is too great, we will try to work with you to find a solution we can approve.  We look at proposals on a case-by-case basis: the best answer for a rural location may be quite different to what is best in a tightly enclosed development in a town or village.  Please talk to us about your proposals at an early stage as possible.

 Wind turbines

Small scale wind turbines and a battery storage system can reduce the need to draw electricity from the grid, but is unlikely to replace external supplies altogether.

Think about:

• technical advice on wind speeds and payback times
• structural considerations if it is to be mounted on a building
• noise impact on neighbours
• impact on the landscape or character of the building

Solar panels

There are 2 types of solar panels.

Photovoltaic cells produce electricity from light.  Thermal water heating uses sunlight to heat water, supplementing existing water heating arrangements.

Both types are normally installed on roofs but can be ground mounted.  Think about:

• orientation and avoiding overshadowing from trees
• how many panels you need
• have you found the least sensitive location? Consider mounting panels on outbuildings or the ground
• can the structure they are to be mounted on take the weight?

What else can I do to improve my energy efficiency?

Installing renewable energy is not the only answer and may not be the best or most cost-effective solution for you.  Also think about:

• improving insulation to cut out draughts
• improving the efficiency of your heating system
• installing double or secondary glazing
• installing energy efficient lighting and appliances

Please take specialist advice

Technology in this area is changing very fast and this can have a major impact on efficiency and time it would take to recoup your costs. 

Follow the link on the left to find out if you will need to apply for planning permission.  Follow the links below to find out more about energy efficiency and sustainable construction.