Do You Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels?

Solar power is becoming increasingly popular, and those choosing to make the change can benefit from financial incentives and a more efficient system thanks to continuing research and technological advancements.

For those companies with the space to install a cost-efficient solar power system, it seems like an obvious choice, but there are rules and regulations to consider before a solar project gets the go-ahead. In today’s blog, we’ll investigate the legal process behind installing solar panels…

Planning Regulations

In the UK, most commercial and residential solar panel installations are considered ‘permitted development’, meaning they don’t require planning permission. However, there are rules that must be followed…

Commercial

• Solar panels on a roof or wall should not project more than 200mm from the wall or roof slope.
• Solar panels on a flat roof should be no more than one metre from the highest point of the roof (excluding the chimney).
• Solar equipment on a roof must be no more than one metre from the external edge of the roof.
• Solar panels on a wall must be no more than one metre from the junction of that wall with another wall or the roof.
• Solar panels must not be installed on a listed building, within the grounds of a listed building, or on a site designated as a scheduled monument.
• Only the installation of microgeneration solar thermal equipment or microgeneration solar PV equipment is allowed; the installation of any other equipment must be approved by the Local Planning Authority.

Note: Leaseholders must obtain permission from the landlord, freeholder or management company

Residential

• Solar panels on a pitched roof should not be installed above the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney) and should project no more than 200mm from the wall surface or roof slope.
• Solar PV equipment on a flat roof must be no more than 600mm above the highest point of the roof (excluding the chimney).
• The panels must not be installed on a listed building or within the grounds of a listed building or on a site designated as a scheduled monument.
• If the property is in a conservation area or a World Heritage Site, panels must not be fitted to a wall which fronts a highway.

As a general rule, solar panel equipment should be installed to minimise the effect on the external appearance of the building. And when it is no longer required, it should be removed.

What About Ground-Mounted Solar Installations?

Planning permission is generally not required for the first standalone solar panel installation on residential or commercial land, unless the equipment is closer to the highway than the nearest part of the building.

Further installations will require planning permission from the local authority. However, all ground-mounted solar panel installations must comply with each of the following:

• The installation should not be higher than 4m.
• If the equipment is closer to the highway than the nearest building, it should be no higher than 2m.
• The installation should be at least 5m from the property’s boundary.
• The array size should be no bigger than 9 square metres.
• Panels should not be installed within the boundary of a listed building or scheduled monument.

If you’re unsure whether you need planning permission for your solar installation, contact your Local Planning Authority.

Commercial Solar Panel Installation Process

Solar PV is a well-proven solution for businesses looking to save energy costs and reduce CO2 emissions. A commercial installation requires careful planning to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations while providing an optimal energy solution. The installation process should follow a clear path and address each of the following…

• Site Survey – assess roof structural integrity, sunlight exposure, energy needs, and budget.
• Design plan – roof space calculations and equipment layout.
• Installation – usually scaffolding is erected, then the panels are installed and the electrical connections integrated into the building’s power supply.
• Maintenance – ongoing care and maintenance is key to keeping solar PV operating at its best.

Once installed and tested, your solar PV system will begin generating 100% renewable energy!

A warehouse roof is the perfect space for a solar PV installation. Harness the power of your roof space with a commercial solar panel installation.

Combining Solar Power with Back-Up Power

We all depend on consistent and reliable energy to some extent, but some are more dependent on electricity than others. Whether it’s a medical or commercial need, or something else, having a backup power source available when solar power is low or unavailable can be invaluable.

For those seeking 100% reliability, combining solar power with a backup generator can offer a robust solution, giving you the best of both worlds – renewable energy savings with reliable back up power.

Systems can be integrated using a transfer switch, that directs power from the solar power or generator. Inverter generators work best with solar panels, as they produce clean, stable energy, which is vital for solar inverters.

Vital Power incorporates solar energy with battery energy storage, electric vehicle charging and intelligent management systems to provide an optimal power solution for your business.