Solar panel rules are quite straightforward but these are different in locations and types of properties.  Here is a quick look:

• Residential Properties: most of the installations are “permitted development” and as such don’t require planning permission. Panels should not project over 200mm from the roof surface.

If your dwelling is a Conservation Area or a Listed Building, you will need permission.

• Ground Mount: The highest point should be no higher than 4metres and it must be 5 metres away from a boundary
• Commercial Properties: Planning permission is often needed for larger installations

Check your local planning authority before proceeding. 

Solar energy is an excellent way to not only reduce your carbon footprint but also cut energy bills. Yet, humans do not install solar panels, and they secretly believe this is due to fear over planning permissions and regulatory hurdles. Often navigating the legal requirements for solar can be very overwhelming, whether as a homeowner or business owner. 

These questions often pop into one’s mind, such as

Do I need planning permission?

valid concerns which one always has in mind. Without proper guidance, one risks delays, fines, and even dismantling an installation. Agitation: How Poor Planning Can Make Your Green Energy Project a Headache: Poor planning can turn what should be a worthy green energy project into a headache. What if you had invested thousands of dollars in solar panels only to discover afterwards that your installation violates some local laws? You could be made to take them down or embark on some long appeal process. This not only wastes your time and money but also discourages people from solar energy. In some cases, businesses might incur severe fines if their solar projects do not comply with commercial property regulations.

Conservation zones and listed buildings pose special challenges which require special attention.

The last thing anyone wants is to start saving on energy bills only to be hit with unexpected legal costs.

1. How to Plan for Solar Installation?

Know the Local Rules For the majority of residential properties, solar panel installations come under “permitted development” rights. This is a very important point: you generally don’t need permission for planning if the system fits certain criteria. The key rule is that the panels must not protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface. However, exceptions exist.

If you are in a conservation area, a listed building, or an AONB, you will most probably be needing permission.

It’s very important that you call your local planning authority to confirm whether you are within these categories.

2. Planning for Commercial Properties

Commercial properties have to adhere to planning regulations more stringently. Most large installations, particularly those that would be visible from any public area, need planning permission. In certain instances, ground-mounted systems would be more judiciously placed, normally over 5 meters away from property boundaries. Panels higher than 4 meters will surely need approval. Prior to commencing any large-scale commercial solar project, it is prudent to work with a professional who appreciates these various subtle and sundry points and can lead your installation within the bounds of local jurisprudence.

3. Ground-Mounted Solar Systems

Ground-mounted systems provide an area of flexibility for homes or businesses which don’t have quite enough roof space for their panels. The rules about such installations include the following: panels must not be higher than 4 meters and should be at least 5 meters from your property boundary. If your system covers a large surface area, you could be required to obtain planning permission even in residential estates.

4. Conservation Zones and Listed Buildings

Living in a conservation area or a listed building can add further complications. You will have to show that your solar installation will not adversely affect the character of your property and/or its surroundings. In this scenario, planning permission is just about a given, and it could take quite a while to get approval. This doesn’t prevent you from using solar energy, but it needs a more strategic approach:

5. Partnering with Experts

But the best ally one can have is a professional solar installer who knows how the local regulations go. Companies like Green Powered Systems help homeowners and businesses with this planning phase. They ensure that your solar project is legitimate, in which damagingly expensive mistakes and delays are avoided.

Conclusion:

Take the Stress Out of Solar Planning Solar planning can be somewhat overwhelming; it is, in fact, quite smooth and very rewarding, provided the right guidance has been available. Knowing the local regulations and working with people who are well-versed in solar installations, the solar system installed will not only be within the bounds of legality but also a great way to save energy costs. Green Powered Systems is here to make it easier so that your transition towards cleaner energy is made as efficient and stress-free as possible.