Understanding renewable energy and planning: Part 1

Want to learn about how decisions regarding renewable energy and related infrastructure developments are made? Then this introductory session to planning and energy consents processes is the good way to start.

This event is Part 1 of a two-part series and focuses on understanding the basics before moving on to how you can get involved.

What is this session about?

In Part 1, we will explain the different planning and consent processes used for renewable energy applications, including:

• Regular town planning applications
• Section 36 and 37 applications under the Electricity Act 1989, which are used for larger scale renewable projects like big wind farms and power lines

What about Part 2?

In Part 2, we will do a quick recap of the consent processes, then focus on when, how and to who to write representations. This depends on what application process the project is going through.

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants to learn about how decisions are made in relation to renewable energy developments and related infrastructure:

• Community groups
• Volunteers
• Local organisations
• Individuals

No technical skills or planning knowledge needed.

Who can attend:

The session is free and open to anyone across Scotland.

For accessibility requirements, further information or any questions, please contact Anne Krippler anne@pas.org.uk

About this training series

This event is part of a new series of training sessions delivered by Planning Aid Scotland, funded by the Scottish Government through the National Planning Hub.

Our programme has been designed to give communities and individuals the confidence and knowledge to play an active role in shaping their local area.

Through these sessions you’ll learn:

• How to engage effectively with the planning system, particularly around electricity and renewable energy applications, understanding the process, knowing where your voice fits in and how to make it count.
• How to prepare strong community-led plans (including Local Place Plans and Community Action Plans), learning about relevant community engagement skills and with sustainability at the heart of your approach.

Each session is practical, accessible and focused on real-world challenges.

This is a one-off programme of sessions and will not be repeated, so we encourage early booking if you’re interested. The sessions will be recorded and will be available to rewatch for 3 months.

Explore the full programme of training sessions on our Eventbrite page to see what else we’re offering and to find the topics most relevant to you.