We are pleased to publish our new guide: Navigating the Consenting Processes for Renewable Energy Developments. Written by chartered planners, this guide provides clear, impartial information on how the Scottish planning system handles these developments. It is part of a series of information sheets Planning Aid Scotland has developed to make the planning system more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

This new information sheet is designed to help anyone involved with, or affected by, a proposal for onshore renewable energy-related developments such as windfarms, solar, hydro schemes, battery storage, and related infrastructure. It provides:

• An explanation of the main types of renewable energy projects
• A breakdown of the necessary permissions these projects need and how decisions are made
• Tips on when and how people can have a say on proposals in their area

Our Planning and Projects Officer, Anne Krippler, was involved in developing the information sheet:

“The consenting process for renewable energy developments can sometimes feel complicated, especially with Scotland’s two-tier planning system for these projects. We designed this information sheet to help break things down in a clear and straightforward way. The sheet takes you through the different types of consenting processes and covers everything from the early pre-application stage, right through to the appeals process.

A key part is that it explains how and when communities can get involved in shaping these projects. The central message is: get involved early. The sooner a community speaks up, the more opportunities there are to contribute to the design and delivery of a proposed development.”

Planning Aid Scotland’s Chief Executive, Johanna Boyd, explains why this is so important right now:

“With our unique geography and weather, renewable energy is fast becoming a critical growth area in Scotland. These developments will play a pivotal role in helping the country meet its emissions reduction targets. The Scottish Government is committed to generating the equivalent of 50% of Scotland’s overall energy consumption from renewable sources by 2030, and to have decarbonised the energy system almost completely by 2050 (Scottish Energy Strategy).

These ambitious targets will see an increase in renewable energy development across the country. It is important our communities are well-informed about what is happening in their local areas and are provided with clear, reliable information to help them understand the different types of development, the processes which lead to them being built, and how they can get involved at a community level.

I hope this information sheet will help communities feel more empowered, so we can all have a role in shaping a greener future for Scotland.”

Click here to access the information sheet.

If you have any questions that aren’t covered by the information sheet or would like further clarification, please contact our free Advice Service. This service is funded by the Scottish Government to support individuals and communities navigate the planning system.