Energy consents
An energy consent is permission to build, operate or modify energy infrastructure, with different types handled by different bodies.
Who decides applications
Scottish Ministers decide on applications to build, operate or modify onshore electricity generating stations over 50 megawatts (MW), such as wind, solar, battery and hydropower. Ministers also decide applications on overhead power lines, large oil and gas pipelines, and related infrastructure.
Applications for smaller onshore stations (50 MW or under) are decided by the local planning authority.
Applications for marine energy infrastructure – including offshore wind, wave, tidal energy and sub-sea cables – are decided by Marine Scotland.
How applications are processed
Applications to be determined by Scottish Ministers and their supporting documents are published on our Energy Consents Portal, where you can search live and historic cases.
The Energy Consents Unit (ECU) processes applications in line with relevant legislation. Scottish Ministers consider the merits of each proposal on a case-by-case basis. Before making decisions on applications, Ministers take into account all relevant material available to them, including application documents, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports, consultation responses, and representations from the public.
Apply or get involved
- developers - see guidance on how to apply
- members of the public - see guidance on submitting representations
More information
For further guidance and resources, visit the energy consents document collection.