Written question WQ96155
- Asked by
- Samuel KurtzConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 8 days
Question
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to prioritising the installation of solar panels on buildings rather than using best and most versatile agricultural land?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning
Recent changes to our permitted developments rights and building regulations in Wales mean that the installing of solar panels on buildings is far easier than ever before.
Our Planning policy is also clear on this. The approach to solar PV array developments was also confirmed in a ‘Dear Chief Planning Officer’ letter dated 1st March 2022.
Where Best and Most Versatile land is identified within a proposed solar PV array development, considerable weight should be given to protecting such land from development, and unless other significant material considerations indicate otherwise, it will be necessary to refuse permission.