Rennie: Changes to solar development rules overdue

Scottish Liberal Democrat communities spokesperson Willie Rennie MSP has welcomed a consultation on changes to the rules allowing the installation of solar panels, but has accused the government of lagging behind other parts of the UK.

Permitted Development Rights determine whether solar panel projects on properties are exempt from planning applications. Current rules only apply to projects less than 50kW in Scotland, while the limit in the rest of the UK is twenty times higher. The limit also determines which businesses are eligible for rates relief.

The Scottish Government yesterday announced the launch of a consultation on reform to Permitted Development Rights which will ask for views on removing the 50kW limit for solar panels fitted to non-domestic buildings. It is open now until 23 August.

Willie Rennie has repeatedly called on ministers to review the rules. In November last year then planning minister Tom Arthur told the MSP that the changes would be brought forward: “very soon in the new year”.

Mr Rennie said:

“The Scottish Government has taken its time to bring forward these straightforward changes. Rules in Scotland have not kept pace with improvements in solar panel technology, and have lagged behind other parts of the UK where the size of permitted developments has already been increased. Change is overdue.

“Removing the 50kW limit would be a positive step towards meeting our climate targets. Businesses want to do their part, as well as to benefit from generating their own renewable energy. We should be making it easier for companies to invest in renewable technologies, not putting barriers in their way. I encourage businesses to take part in the consultation and hope that it will lead to swift action from the government.”