A Practical Guide to Solar Energy Development

Solar energy development is about to be very big. The support for large scale solar energy development at a national level and in emerging government policy is unequivocal and is set to continue. It is a position that has led to a significant increase in the number of very large scale projects in the planning system in recent times with the inevitable need for the input of planning professionals, lawyers, and a wide range of experts including heritage, landscape and ecology professionals. This book is intended to provide a short and practical guide to the law and policy relevant to solar energy development, and the different routes to achieving planning consent. It addresses common issues that arise in respect of this type of project, from scheme design and amendment to post consent, and reflects on recent decisions for large scale solar projects. It is intended to provide an introduction to solar energy development for planning practitioners across all disciplines, and it may also be of use to other stakeholders in the process such as councillors and local interest groups. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Thea is a specialist planning and environmental law practitioner at No5 Chambers and is consistently rated as one of the leading juniors at the planning and environmental bar. Thea was included in the Planner's Women of Influence list for 2021. Thea has a diverse practice specialising in the promotion of development with particular expertise in solar energy, and major residential development. Thea is an experienced inquiry advocate and regularly advises on project design and amendment, strategy, and prospects of success. Thea is listed in the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners which notes that she is "Really good with clients, really good on her feet and exceptional with detail. Her work ethic is brilliant." "Incredibly thorough, incredibly focused and also a very engaging person. A great advocate." Thea is ranked in Band 1 for Planning. CONTENTS Chapter One - Background and Context Chapter Two - Securing Consent for Solar Development - An Overview Chapter Three - The Role of Law, Policy and Guidance in Solar Development Chapter Four - Impacts and Benefits Chapter Five - Applications and Appeals Pursuant to the TCPA 1990 Chapter Six - Applications Under the PA 2008 Chapter Seven - Post Consent Issues Chapter Eight - The Future for Solar Development