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A planning shake-up to make it easier for householders to install solar panels, wind turbines and ground heat pumps is being considered.A planning shake-up to make it easier for householders to install solar panels, wind turbines and ground heat pumps is being considered.
Energy Minister Stewart Stevenson is consulting on whether micro-generation equipment could be set up without the need for planning permission.Energy Minister Stewart Stevenson is consulting on whether micro-generation equipment could be set up without the need for planning permission.
Micro-generation is a vital part of the government's plan to cut Scotland's carbon emissions by 80% by 2050.Micro-generation is a vital part of the government's plan to cut Scotland's carbon emissions by 80% by 2050.
The planning regulations would make the systems easier to install.The planning regulations would make the systems easier to install.
Under the government's plans, solar panels and ground heat pumps would no longer need planning permission, provided they were not in a conservation area.Under the government's plans, solar panels and ground heat pumps would no longer need planning permission, provided they were not in a conservation area.
Wind turbines would need to be less than three metres tall and at least 100m away from the next house. 'Global effort'
Wind turbines would need to be less than three metres tall and at least 100 metres away from the next house.
Mr Stevenson said it was a matter of balancing energy needs with the look of streets and houses.Mr Stevenson said it was a matter of balancing energy needs with the look of streets and houses.
The public consultation will be carried out over the next 10 weeks. "Everyone has a part to play and the Scottish Government is providing strong leadership by reforming the planning system to encourage greater use of micro-generation equipment," he added.
"This signals Scotland's serious intent to lead the global effort to tackle climate change.
"The cost and time required to get planning consent can often be a disincentive to householders seeking to install micro-generation technologies."
The Scottish Government recently announced its intention to introduce a statutory target to reduce Scottish emissions by 80% by 2050.
Energy Saving Trust said it would support the proposals, which would help people to reduced their carbon footprint.
A public consultation will be carried out over the next 10 weeks.