Onshore electricity generation - Electricity Act threshold: consultation
We are seeking views on increasing the 50MW threshold which determines whether applications for onshore electricity generating stations are decided by Scottish Ministers or by the relevant planning authority.
Open
63 days to respond
Respond online
Introduction
In Scotland, applications for onshore electricity generation projects are considered through two different routes.
The Scottish Ministers are responsible for deciding applications to build, operate or modify onshore electricity generating stations with capacities exceeding 50 megawatts (MW) under powers contained in the Electricity Act 1989. Where consent is granted under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989, Scottish Ministers have the power under the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 to grant ‘deemed’ planning permission.
Applications concerning onshore electricity generating stations with capacities of 50 MW or less are largely decided by planning authorities under the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, as amended.
This consultation invites views on increasing the current 50MW threshold which determines whether applications for onshore electricity generating stations are made to Scottish Ministers or the relevant planning authority.