New rules to allow homeowners to install solar panels, ground source heat pumps and other microgeneration technologies to help cut carbon emissions were given the green light by Planning Minister Caroline Flint.
From April 6, all homeowners will be able to install microgeneration equipment, like solar panels, without needing to get planning permission, as long as there is clearly no impact on others.
Currently, the energy used to heat, light and run our homes accounts for 27% of all of the UK's carbon emissions - around 40 million tonnes. Many householders want to install microgeneration technology, but are often put off by the time and cost involved in getting planning permission first.
The new regulations will help to increase the 100,000 households that have cut both their fuel bills and carbon footprint by installing microgeneration equipment in their homes, without them having in future to go through the planning application process.
The Government has indicated that it will legislate further to allow free-standing and building-mounted wind turbines on detached properties, and air source heat pumps to be installed without needing planning permission. However, it has to await clearance from the European Commission and expects to be able progress these measures later in 2008.
The Government has liaised with industry to agree a micro-generation certification scheme that will ensure these technologies in particular are sufficiently quiet in their operation so as not to cause a nuisance for neighbours.
The Government is also reforming the planning system, so more small scale household improvements no longer require planning permission. Almost 90,000 householders a year will be taken out of a system, which can cost them up to £1,000 for minor home improvements like loft conversions.
