Opportunities in renewable energy

Posted 14/01/2015

Notwithstanding the continual reduction of the rates available for generating electricity from renewable sources, there continue to be valuable opportunities for owner/occupiers who are considering installing such projects. On any project, you will need to consider a number of issues. 

Planning permission and other consents

Consider whether planning permissions will be required or whether there are any permitted development rights.  If there are buildings involved, such as with roof mounted solar panels or biomass boilers, are there any listed building or other conservation issues to consider.

Grid connection

Where the supply is to be connected to the Grid, you will need to consider whether there is the ability to connect into the grid or whether you are looking to use this as a self-contained supply.  Self-contained supplies are less usual since there will be times when you will be generating more electricity than you are using.  However the availability of a grid connection may be an issue both in terms of capacity and location.

Restrictions on Title

Are there any restrictions or limitations in your title deeds as to the use of your property or any access to the property? Are there any third party rights over your land that may be affected by the proposed project such as shooting rights?  Do any of the electricity cable routes or the grid connection point lie on third party land?  Will you need to separate consents or easements? 

Funding

Although, the intention of any renewable project will be to pay off the initial capital outlay as quickly as possible so that any benefits from feed in tariff and generated electricity are mainly profit, short term finance may be required.  On smaller scale projects, it is more usual for funders to require security from existing assets such as land and buildings rather than the kit and the project itself but most funders now have specialist advisers who will be able to discuss any available options. 

The Supplier

Consider the length of guarantees/warranties in relation to any kit or work; the track record of the supplier including any references from their customers and the possibility of site visits to view up and running installations. Speaking to other landowners, banks, local land agents or other professionals will also be a useful source of information.

For individual advice, please contact Simon Cunningham in our Agriculture & Estates Team on 01603 703085 or email simon.cunningham@ashtonslegal.co.uk