Landlords will be able to install solar panels on roofs more easily, following an extension to permitted development rights.
The extension will apply to commercial buildings and homes with flat roofs.
Applications for rooftop solar panels above 1MW currently have to go through the planning system, incurring at least an eight-week wait and extra costs.
It is hoped the changes will unlock space on warehouse roofs for acres of solar panels. However, warehouse landlords have pointed out that, while welcome, the changes do nothing to address the real issue, which is connecting the panels to the grid.
Net zero minister Graham Stuart said: “Removing the 1MW restriction for industrial rooftop solar will help us meet our target of 70GW of solar power by 2035 while supporting hundreds of long-term skilled British jobs, bolstering our world-leading renewables sector and reducing bills for consumers with panels.”
Housing and planning minister Lee Rowley added: “We must make sure our homes are fit for the future and can help us meet our net zero ambitions.
“By cutting red tape in the planning system we can make sure homeowners and businesses can install solar panels without being held up by costly delays. Crucially, these permitted development rights are still subject to important conditions, including their use in conservation areas.”
The changes will also make it easier for panels to be installed in canopies above car parks, provided they are more than 10m away from people’s homes.
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