Renewable energy and planning
The following questions and answers are designed to offer advice about the planning permission required for renewable energy devices. If you need additional help, you can:
- contact us for guidance
- read our general guidance on renewable energy
- read about climate change in the Peak District
You can also read our leaflets on renewable energy and conservation.
- Supplementary planning document for climate change and sustainable building
- Design and siting of solar panels (601KB)
1. Can I install a device for renewable energy?
The location of your house and the specific location of the device is what makes the difference between you needing planning permission or not.
Please contact our customer service team for advice on 01629 816 200 or customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk.
Devices that may not need planning permission:
- Solar thermal panels (under 200mm depth and installed at the rear)
- Solar photovoltaic panels
- Ground source heat pumps (within a garden)
- Water source heat pumps (within a garden)
- Biomass boilers (with a low flue and installed at the rear)
Devices that always need planning permission:
- Air source heat pumps
- Anaerobic digesters
- Small-scale hydroelectric schemes
- Wind turbines
2. What if I live in a conservation area or in a listed building?
- If your house is in a conservation area, it will need special consideration.
- If your house is a listed building, you will need special consent.
Please contact our customer service team on 01629 816 200 or email customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk.
3. Are there any grants to help me pay the installation costs?
Some energy companies may offer assistance to install renewables, and you should check with your individual suppliers