New rules to help cut carbon
NEW rules to allow homeowners to install solar panels, ground source heat pumps and other technologies to help cut carbon emissions have been given the green light by Planning Minister Caroline Flint.
From April 6, all homeowners will be able to install such microgeneration equipment, without needing planning permission, as long as there is clearly no impact on others.
Currently, the energy used to heat, light and run our homes accounts for 27 per cent of all of the UK's carbon emissions - around 40 million tonnes.
Many householders want to install microgeneration technology, but are often put off by the time and cost involved in getting planning permission first.
The new regulations will help to add to 100,000 households that have cut both their fuel bills and carbon footprint by installing microgeneration equipment in their homes, without them having in future to go through the planning application process.
Caroline Flint said: "We want to make it easier to help people reduce their carbon footprint.
"Technology like solar panels can make a real difference, but homeowners can be put off by the time and expense of getting planning permission.
"We think it is right that people have more freedom to make these changes providing it has no impact on others.
"These new rules, together with our world-leading timetable for all new homes to be zero carbon from 2016, are a key part of our commitment to tackle climate change by reducing emissions from housing."
The Government is also reforming the planning system so more small scale household improvements no longer require planning permission. Almost 90,000 householders a year will be taken out of a system, which can cost them up to £1000, for minor home improvements such as loft conversions.
11:30am Wednesday 19th March 2008
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