What is involved in the application stage?
In most cases, the applicant should carry out a detailed environment impact assessment (EIA) and provide an Environmental Statement (ES) in support of the application. An EIA may not always be required for extensions to existing generating stations. Where an EIA is required this is subject to publicity requirements set out in the 2000 Regulations. A copy of the application will be submitted to the relevant planning authority, as well as the Scottish Executive's consultees. The application will then be advertised in local and national press for two consecutive weeks, following which members of the public have the opportunity to make representations relating to the proposal.
What information should the Environmental Statement contain?
An ES is likely to involve a considerable amount of work. The ES should include an assessment of the effects of the proposed development on the environment (including its cumulative impact alongside other developments already consented but not yet built or in the planning system) and proposed mitigation and compensatory measures. Potential developers will also need to provide details of the connection to the electricity network. They will have to provide details of route, habitat to be traversed and mitigation measures and, if applicable, to give consideration to the sharing of electrical or gas connections with any other proposed developments in the area.
How much does it cost to make an application under Section 36 of the Electricity Act?
There is an agreed fee structure for section 36 application. Should you have any questions relating to fees, please contact:-
Mark Christie
Energy Consents Unit
Scottish Executive
Meridian Court
5 Cadogan Street
Glasgow
G2 6AT
Email: EnergyConsents@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Should our application include 'buffer zones'?
Planning authorities should not impose additional zones of protection around areas designated for their landscape or ecological value including sites of national and international importance. However, the potential impact of proposals on such areas may be a material consideration to be taken into account when determining planning applications. Where there are potential significant effects on a Natura 2000 site the competent authority will require to undertake an appropriate assessment under the Habitats Regulations.
What is SPP6 and how does it affect Section 36 consents?
Scottish Planning Policies (SPPs) provide policy guidance on nationally important land use and other planning matters, supported where appropriate by a locational framework. SPP6 was issued in March 2007 and sets out a planning framework to help ensure the delivery of renewable energy targets as well as supporting the development of a viable renewables industry in Scotland. The main effect of SPP6 on section 36 consents is to create awareness of day-to-day procedures and make local authorities more proactive in our processes, particularly scoping. It also strengthens the issue of economic benefit.
If the name of our company changes, will this affect our consent?
Any change in ownership of the consent must be carried out through the assignation process. A checklist outlining the information to be submitted and checks to be carried out can be obtained from the Energy Consents Unit.