David Bell: Reform is game changer for renewables

This will lead to an update of how nationally important land-use planning matters should be addressed.

The consultation covers various planning topics including onshore wind. It is clear some issues with wind development in practice have led to calls for changes to planning policy rules.

The two documents set out a fresh policy framework for onshore wind, but with potentially more constraints. These could hinder the attainment of the ambitious targets that have been set.

NPF 3 reminds us that the target of 100 per cent of Scotland’s electricity consumption by 2020 means that we will need to have 14-16 gigawatts of installed renewable generating capacity in place by that date.

It states that “further deployment of onshore wind remains a key strand in our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve a balanced energy supply”.

However, a key new constraint is the proposed application of “core” areas of wild land, mapped by Scottish Natural Heritage. These will be zones classed as “areas of significant protection”. Up until now, wind developments have been assessed on their respective merits with regard to wild land areas and schemes with unacceptable effects have traditionally not received consent.

The consequence of these proposed quasi-designations, which are much more extensive than the current “search areas for wild land” is that, when combined with designations such as National Scenic Areas and National Parks, further pressure for development will be created on other land areas, perhaps closer to settlements.

As a result, the industry will have to pay more attention in ensuring well-sited and well-designed schemes come forward. With consultation under way, there is now an opportunity to influence the national policy landscape to ensure that a balance is struck between environmental capacity and the attainment of national targets.

• David Bell is director of Planning & Renewables at Jones Lang LaSalle.