What permits are required for commercial solar panel installation?

Commercial solar panel installations in the UK not only requires careful planning and design but also need specific permits and approvals to ensure compliance with regulations and local requirements. Our experience shows that understanding the approvals landscape and obtaining the necessary permits at the right time will significantly streamline the process and prevent potential delays to your installation. So, with that in mind, here’s a breakdown of the main permits and approvals needed for commercial solar installations in the UK.

Planning Permission

Whether or not planning permission is required depends largely on the type of installation and its location. Roof-mounted solar panels often fall under “permitted development” rights, which means they don’t require formal planning permission. However, these rights can vary based on factors such as the building’s size, its height above the roofline, and the building’s listed status.

For ground-mounted systems, planning permission is more likely to be required for larger systems. In areas with heritage or conservation status, planning permission is generally mandatory as the visual and environmental impact of solar arrays must be carefully managed.

Environmental Permits

Depending on the scale and location of the installation, environmental permits may be required, particularly for ground-mounted solar farms. In areas of ecological sensitivity, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), specific environmental permits ensure that local wildlife and habitats are not negatively impacted by the installation.

Environmental assessments are often required as part of the planning process and may involve consultations with environmental bodies. These assessments can add time, cost and complexity to the permitting process, but they are crucial for ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Listed Building Consent

Eden has it's own in-house legal experts to guide you through the whole process

For installations on listed buildings, additional consent is required to ensure that the installation does not compromise the historical integrity or appearance of the building. Listed Building Consent applies to structures designated as architecturally or historically significant, and it may involve consultations with heritage organizations or local authorities.

Securing consent for listed buildings can add complexity to the installation process as there may be restrictions on panel placement or the type of mounting systems used. Engaging with specialists familiar with listed building requirements can help navigate this process smoothly.

Distribution Network Operator (DNO) Approval

Connecting a commercial solar system to the electricity grid in the UK requires approval from the local DNO. This approval ensures that the local grid can handle the additional power generated and protects the grid from potential overload.

The DNO application process includes submitting detailed information about the installation, including expected generation capacity and grid connection plans. Larger systems may require an extended application period (known as a statement of works), so it is wise to begin this process early to avoid delays.

Grid Connection Agreement/Export PPA

Separate from the DNO approval, a grid connection agreement is often required for large commercial systems. This agreement, typically arranged with the electricity supplier or energy offtaker, outlines the terms and conditions for exporting excess power to the grid. In some cases, an export power purchase agreement may also be negotiated to establish the sale of excess energy at an agreed-upon rate.

Health and Safety Permits

Solar installations must comply with health and safety standards, especially during installation. The UK’s Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) 2015 outline responsibilities for both the client and contractor regarding site safety, risk assessments, and safe work practices. For example, the role of a Principal Designer and Principal Contractor may need to be appointed for compliance with CDM 2015.

Health and safety permits may include site assessments for hazardous materials, such as asbestos in older buildings, and additional safety precautions may be required to protect workers and ensure public safety. 

Building Regulations Approval

Building Regulations apply to solar installations to ensure that structural and fire safety standards are met. Roof-mounted systems must adhere to standards concerning load-bearing capacity and structural integrity to prevent damage or collapse. Compliance with fire safety regulations is also essential, particularly for larger systems that may require special electrical safety measures.

Take your step to a more sustainable future

Navigating the permit process for commercial solar installations in the UK involves several steps, from planning permissions to grid connection agreements and health and safety compliance. Each permit is critical to ensuring a safe, efficient, and legally compliant installation, allowing businesses to benefit from solar energy while adhering to regulatory requirements.

If you’re thinking about making the switch to a more sustainable energy future, then contact us via our website. We’d love to use our years of experience to help you experience a smooth path to a successful solar installation.