Overview

The Green Energy (Definition and Promotion) Act 2009 aimed to promote the development and use of green energy in England and Wales. It defined "green energy," established a microgeneration strategy, and streamlined planning permission for certain green energy installations.

Description

The Act defines "green energy" as electricity or heat generation from renewable or low-carbon sources using equipment with a capacity not exceeding 5 megawatts (electricity) or 5 megawatts thermal (heat), and energy efficiency measures.

Microgeneration Strategy

The Act mandated the Secretary of State to create and publish a strategy for promoting microgeneration (small-scale energy generation). This involved consulting with relevant stakeholders and considering the contribution of microgeneration to national energy goals. The definition of microgeneration was updated within the Act.

Planning Permission

The Act required changes to planning regulations to simplify the process of obtaining planning permission for specific microgeneration equipment (like wind turbines and air source heat pumps) on dwellinghouses in England. The Secretary of State was also required to consider similar amendments for non-domestic land. A review of the impact of the planning changes was also mandated.

Government Spending

The Act did not directly specify government spending figures. However, the implementation of the microgeneration strategy and the changes to planning regulations likely involved costs associated with policy development, consultation, and administrative work. Further financial implications would be related to supporting the uptake of green energy technologies. No specific budget was allocated within this Act.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Homeowners: Simplified planning permission for microgeneration equipment could make green energy installations more accessible and affordable.
• Businesses: Potential changes to planning regulations for non-domestic land could impact the installation of microgeneration on commercial properties.
• Green energy companies: The Act could stimulate market growth by increasing demand for and simplifying the installation of green energy technologies.
• Local authorities: Changes to planning regulations would require changes to their processes.
• Consumers: Increased access to green energy sources may lead to lower energy bills and environmental benefits.

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