Solar Panels Exempt Development: Understanding the Rules and Benefits

Liam D

Aug 28, 2023 • 17 min read

Solar panels exempt development in Ireland has been a topic of interest for many homeowners, businesses, and communities.

The Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 and the supporting Planning and Development (Solar Safeguarding Zone) Regulations 2022 provide updated provisions regarding planning exemptions for rooftop solar installations.

The changes aim to increase Ireland's generation of solar energy and combat climate change while making permitting procedures for installing solar on rooftops shorter and simpler.

The new regulations allow houses, regardless of location, to install unlimited solar panels on their rooftops without any requirement for planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Exemptions also apply to rooftops of industrial buildings, business premises, community and educational buildings, places of worship, health buildings, libraries, and farms. The amendments aim to bring Ireland into line with the EU's Solar Rooftops Initiative, which encourages the use of solar energy and electricity generation.

Overall, the recent changes in solar panels exempt development in Ireland have significant implications for energy security, renewable energy, and the environment.

The government initiatives and policies, economic and financial aspects, location and installation factors, and community and stakeholder involvement are all crucial factors that need to be considered while implementing these regulations.

Understanding the different types of buildings and solar installations exempted from planning permission and the regulations and amendments associated with them is essential to take advantage of the benefits of solar energy.

Key Takeaways

The Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 and the supporting Planning and Development (Solar Safeguarding Zone) Regulations 2022 provide updated provisions regarding planning exemptions for rooftop solar installations.
The new regulations allow houses, regardless of location, to install unlimited solar panels on their rooftops without any requirement for planning permission, subject to certain conditions.
The recent changes in solar panels exempt development in Ireland have significant implications for energy security, renewable energy, and the environment.

Understanding Solar Panels Exempt Development

Solar panels exempt development is a policy in Ireland that allows for the installation of rooftop solar panels without requiring planning permission. This policy was introduced in 2022 and is aimed at increasing Ireland's generation of solar energy and moving away from fossil fuels.

Houses and developments located outside of a Solar Safeguarding Zone (SSZ) are able to erect unlimited rooftop solar panels. SSZs are applicable to all classes of development other than houses. Rooftop developments within an SSZ are limited to 300sqm for each rooftop within the curtilage of the development.

The exemptions also apply to rooftops of industrial buildings, business premises, community and educational buildings, places of worship, health facilities, and other non-residential buildings.

However, there are certain conditions that must be met for these exemptions to apply, such as ensuring the solar panels are not visible from the road and do not exceed a certain height.

It is important to note that while planning permission is not required for solar panel installations under this policy, building regulations still apply. This means that the installation must meet certain safety and technical standards, and it is recommended to consult with a qualified installer to ensure compliance.

In summary, solar panels exempt development is a policy in Ireland that allows for the installation of rooftop solar panels without requiring planning permission, provided certain conditions are met.

This policy applies to houses and non-residential buildings located outside of a Solar Safeguarding Zone, and is aimed at increasing Ireland's generation of solar energy and moving away from fossil fuels.

Planning and Development Act 2000

The Planning and Development Act 2000 is an Irish law that regulates planning and development in the country. The Act sets out the rules and procedures for the planning and development of land, buildings, and infrastructure.

It also establishes the powers and duties of planning authorities, An Bord Pleanála, and other bodies involved in the planning process.

The Act has been amended several times since its introduction, with the most recent amendments being made in 2022. These amendments include the Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 and the Planning and Development (Solar Safeguarding Zone) Regulations 2022.

These regulations provide updated provisions regarding planning exemptions for rooftop solar installations.

Under the Planning and Development Act 2000, certain types of development are exempt from the requirement to obtain planning permission. These exemptions are known as "exempted development". The Act sets out the criteria that must be met for a development to be considered exempted.

The exemptions cover a wide range of developments, such as minor alterations and extensions to existing buildings, the erection of small structures, and the installation of certain types of equipment.

The exemptions also include the installation of solar panels on rooftops, subject to certain conditions.

Overall, the Planning and Development Act 2000 plays a crucial role in regulating planning and development in Ireland.

The recent amendments to the Act have provided updated provisions for the installation of solar panels on rooftops, making it easier for homeowners and businesses to adopt renewable energy solutions.

Solar Safeguarding Zones

In Ireland, the Planning and Development (Solar Safeguarding Zone) Regulations 2022 set out 43 Solar Safeguarding Zones (SSZs) around airports, aerodromes, and helipads.

These zones are designed to protect aviation safety by mitigating the potential for glint or glare from solar panels to impact pilots' vision during takeoff or landing.

The regulations require that any solar development within an SSZ be notified to the relevant planning authority within four weeks of the development commencing. This notification requirement applies to all classes of development other than houses.

The regulations also impose a limit of 300 square meters per roof for solar exempted developments within an SSZ. This limit is intended to prevent excessive glint or glare from large-scale solar installations, which could pose a hazard to aviation safety.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has published a draft of the regulations for public consultation, which closed on July 12, 2022. The regulations are expected to come into effect later in 2022.

Overall, the regulations strike a balance between promoting renewable energy development and protecting aviation safety. By designating specific areas as SSZs, the regulations provide clarity and certainty for developers while ensuring that aviation safety is not compromised.

Exemptions and Planning Permissions

The Irish government has recently introduced new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels on homes and other buildings. The Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 set out the various classes of exemptions and the conditions and limitations which apply to these classes.

These exemptions apply to rooftops of industrial buildings, business premises, community and educational buildings, places of worship, and health buildings.

Under the new regulations, houses, regardless of location, may now install unlimited solar panels on their rooftops without any requirement for planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

The exemption for solar panels on homes and buildings like community and educational buildings, places of worship, and health buildings was proposed for the first time in June 2022 and came into effect in October 2022.

The new regulations have also introduced setback distances for solar panels, which must be observed to protect the visual amenity of the area. The setback distances are as follows:

50cm from the edge of the roof for panels that are parallel to the roof plane
1m from the edge of the roof for panels that are angled away from the roof plane
1m from the edge of the roof for panels that are mounted on a flat roof

The regulations also require that solar panels on private open space must not be visible from the street or other public areas. If they are visible, planning permission will be required.

It is important to note that the new regulations do not apply to solar panels that are installed on the ground or on walls. Planning permission is still required for these types of installations.

In summary, the new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels on homes and other buildings in Ireland have made it easier for property owners to install solar panels and contribute to the country's renewable energy goals.

However, it is important to follow the conditions and limitations set out in the regulations to ensure compliance with planning laws and protect the visual amenity of the area.

Types of Buildings

The new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels in Ireland apply to a wide range of buildings. These exemptions allow building owners to install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Houses and Apartments

Houses and apartments, regardless of location, are eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that homeowners and tenants can install unlimited solar panels on their rooftops without the need for planning permission, as long as they comply with the conditions set out in the regulations.

Educational Buildings

The exemptions also apply to educational buildings, such as schools and universities. These buildings can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Farms

Farm buildings are also eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that farmers can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Business Premises

Business premises, including shops and offices, are eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that business owners can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Recreational and Religious Buildings

Recreational buildings, such as sports centres and community centres, and religious buildings, such as churches and mosques, are also eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that these buildings can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Health Buildings

Health buildings, such as hospitals and health centres, are eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that these buildings can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Libraries

Libraries are also eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that libraries can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Industrial Buildings

Industrial buildings, such as factories and warehouses, are eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that these buildings can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Non-Domestic Buildings

Non-domestic buildings, such as government buildings and public facilities, are eligible for the solar panel planning permission exemption. This means that these buildings can install solar panels on their rooftops without requiring planning permission, subject to certain conditions.

Overall, the new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels in Ireland apply to a wide range of buildings, enabling building owners to take advantage of the benefits of solar energy without the need for planning permission.

Types of Solar Installations

In Ireland, there are different types of solar installations that are eligible for planning exemptions. These include rooftop solar installations, free-standing solar panel installations, and wall-mounted solar panels.

Rooftop Solar Installations

Rooftop solar installations are the most common type of solar installation in Ireland. They are installed on the rooftops of homes, industrial buildings, light industrial and business premises, and agricultural buildings.

Rooftop solar installations covering the entire roof are exempt from requiring planning permission, except in the 43 designated Solar Safeguarding Zones where a rooftop limit remains.

The Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 set out the various classes of exemptions and the conditions and limitations which apply to these classes.

Free-Standing Solar Panel Installations

Free-standing solar panel installations are those that are not attached to a building. They are installed on the ground and can be used to power homes, businesses, and other facilities. Free-standing solar panel installations must not exceed 300 square meters to be eligible for planning exemptions.

Wall-Mounted Solar Panels

Wall-mounted solar panels are installed on the walls of buildings. They are commonly used in urban areas where rooftop space is limited. Wall-mounted solar panels must not protrude more than 200mm from the wall to be eligible for planning exemptions.

In summary, there are different types of solar installations that are eligible for planning exemptions in Ireland. Rooftop solar installations, free-standing solar panel installations, and wall-mounted solar panels are the most common types of solar installations.

The Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 set out the various classes of exemptions and the conditions and limitations which apply to these classes.

Solar Energy and Electricity Generation

In Ireland, the generation of solar energy has become an increasingly important topic in recent years. With the goal of combating climate change, the government has implemented several measures to encourage the installation of solar panels on homes and other buildings.

One of the main benefits of solar energy is its ability to generate electricity. Solar panels use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity, which can then be used to power homes and businesses.

This process, known as microgeneration, allows individuals and organizations to generate their own renewable electricity, reducing their reliance on non-renewable sources of energy.

The installation of solar panels on homes and other buildings can also have a positive impact on the environment. By generating renewable electricity, individuals and organizations can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

To further encourage the generation of solar energy, the government has implemented planning permission exemptions for the installation of solar panels on rooftops of houses and certain non-domestic buildings.

These exemptions allow for the installation of unlimited rooftop solar panels on houses and the installation of up to 300sqm of solar panels on non-domestic buildings located within a Strategic Development Zone.

In addition to planning permission exemptions, the government also offers grants for the installation of solar panels through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. These grants provide financial assistance to individuals and organizations looking to install solar panels on their homes or businesses.

Overall, the generation of solar energy and the installation of solar panels on homes and other buildings can have a positive impact on the environment and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

With the implementation of planning permission exemptions and the availability of grants, the government is working to encourage the adoption of solar energy and the generation of renewable electricity in Ireland.

Regulations and Amendments

The Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 and the Planning and Development (Solar Safeguarding Zone) Regulations 2022 are the most recent regulations regarding solar panel installation exemptions in Ireland.

These regulations came into effect on October 5, 2022, and provide updated provisions for rooftop solar installations.

Under these regulations, homeowners can install unlimited solar panels on their rooftops without the need for planning permission, subject to certain conditions. The exemptions also apply to the rooftops of industrial buildings, business premises, community and educational buildings, places of worship, health buildings, and agricultural holdings.

The Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 set out the conditions that must be met in order to qualify for exemption. These include:

The solar panels must be installed on an existing building.
The panels must not protrude more than 250mm from the roof's surface.
The panels must not be installed on a building that is a protected structure or located in a designated conservation area.
The panels must not be installed on a building that is used for the breeding or rearing of livestock.

The Planning and Development (Solar Safeguarding Zone) Regulations 2022 establish a safeguarding zone around solar panels to protect them from shading caused by new developments.

The safeguarding zone is a 10-meter radius around the solar panels, and any new development within this zone must be assessed to ensure that it does not cause shading.

It is important to note that these regulations do not apply to ground-mounted solar panels or solar farms. These installations still require planning permission and are subject to separate regulations.

In June 2022, a public consultation was held on the draft Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 and the draft Planning and Development (Solar Safeguarding Zone) Regulations 2022.

The proposed exemptions were for solar rooftops of homes, community and educational buildings, places of worship, health buildings, and agricultural holdings. The final regulations were subsequently amended based on the feedback received during the consultation process.

Community and Stakeholders

The development of solar panels exempt from planning permission in Ireland has been welcomed by many stakeholders, including community groups, farmers, schools, and homeowners. The new regulations provide an opportunity for these groups to generate their own renewable energy and reduce their carbon footprint.

Community groups and schools can now install solar panels on their buildings without the need for planning permission. This exemption provides an opportunity for these groups to reduce their energy bills and invest in sustainable energy solutions.

Farmers can also benefit from the new regulations, as they can now install solar panels on their land without the need for planning permission, providing an additional source of income.

Homeowners can now install unlimited solar panels on their rooftops without any requirement for planning permission, subject to certain conditions. This exemption provides an opportunity for homeowners to reduce their energy bills and invest in sustainable energy solutions.

The new regulations were developed with input from the public through a public consultation process. This process allowed stakeholders to provide feedback and suggestions on the regulations, ensuring that the final regulations are fair and reasonable.

Overall, the development of solar panels exempt from planning permission in Ireland provides an opportunity for communities, farmers, schools, and homeowners to invest in sustainable energy solutions and reduce their carbon footprint.

Climate Change and Renewable Energy

Ireland, like many other countries, is experiencing the effects of climate change. The country is taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint and increase its use of renewable energy sources.

The government has set a target of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The installation of solar panels is one way to achieve this goal.

The new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels on homes and other buildings in Ireland are part of the country's efforts to increase its generation of solar energy and combat climate change.

These changes, which took immediate effect, aim to bring Ireland into line with the EU's Solar Rooftops Initiative by making permitting procedures for installing solar on rooftops shorter and simpler.

The proposed changes will help facilitate the rollout of rooftop solar energy across the country. The government hopes that the new regulations will encourage more people to install solar panels on their homes and businesses, reducing the country's reliance on fossil fuels and creating climate-related opportunities for the renewable energy sector.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland offers grants for the installation of solar panels, which can help to offset the initial cost of installation. These grants are available to homeowners, businesses, and community groups who want to invest in renewable energy.

In summary, the new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels in Ireland are part of the country's efforts to combat climate change and increase its use of renewable energy sources.

The government hopes that these changes will encourage more people to install solar panels on their homes and businesses, reducing the country's reliance on fossil fuels and creating opportunities for the renewable energy sector.

Government Initiatives and Policies

The Irish government has implemented several initiatives to promote the use of solar panels in the country. One of the most significant policies is the Planning and Development (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022, which allows homeowners and businesses to install solar panels on their rooftops without obtaining planning permission.

The revised planning exemptions were signed into law by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O'Brien, in August 2023, and aim to increase Ireland's generation of solar energy and combat climate change.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage oversees the implementation of the new planning exemptions. The department has also established the Solar Energy Programme, which provides funding for the development of solar energy projects across the country.

The programme aims to increase the share of renewable energy in Ireland's electricity mix and reduce the country's reliance on fossil fuels.

In addition to the Planning and Development (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 and the Solar Energy Programme, the Programme for Government includes several commitments related to renewable energy. The programme aims to achieve a target of 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.

The government plans to achieve these targets by increasing investment in renewable energy, promoting energy efficiency, and phasing out the use of fossil fuels.

The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill, which was signed into law in July 2022, also includes several provisions related to renewable energy. The bill sets a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 51% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The bill also establishes a Climate Action Council to provide independent advice on climate policy and monitor progress towards meeting the country's emissions targets.

Overall, the Irish government has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The implementation of the Planning and Development (Exempted Development) (No. 3) Regulations 2022 and the establishment of the Solar Energy Programme are significant steps towards achieving these goals.

Economic and Financial Aspects

The installation of solar panels as exempt development in Ireland has both economic and financial benefits. Homeowners and businesses can save money on energy bills by generating their own electricity. Additionally, the government offers grants to incentivize the installation of solar panels.

According to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), a typical domestic solar panel system can save homeowners up to €220 per year on their electricity bills.

The savings can be even greater for businesses and larger buildings. By generating their own electricity, they can reduce their reliance on the national grid and reduce their energy bills significantly.

In addition to the savings on energy bills, the Irish government offers grants to homeowners and businesses to help cover the cost of installing solar panels. The SEAI offers grants of up to €3,000 for homeowners and up to €50,000 for community groups, sports clubs, and businesses.

The grants are available for both new installations and retrofitting existing buildings.

The installation of solar panels also helps Ireland meet its renewable energy targets. The government has set a target of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

By encouraging the installation of solar panels, the government is helping to increase the amount of renewable energy generated in the country.

Overall, the economic and financial benefits of installing solar panels as exempt development in Ireland are significant.

Homeowners and businesses can save money on energy bills, while also contributing to the country's renewable energy targets. With the availability of grants, the cost of installation is more affordable, making it an attractive option for many.

Location and Installation Factors

When it comes to solar panel installation, location and specific installation factors are crucial. In Ireland, houses and developments located outside of a Solar Safeguarding Zone (SSZ) are able to erect unlimited rooftop solar panels without the need for planning permission.

However, rooftop developments within an SSZ are limited to 300sqm for each rooftop within the curtilage of the development gov.ie.

Small-scale solar panel installations on residential and commercial buildings are becoming increasingly popular in Ireland. Homeowners and businesses are recognizing the benefits of generating their own renewable energy, reducing their carbon footprint, and saving money on energy bills.

When it comes to installation factors, it is important to consider the orientation and angle of the solar panels. South-facing roofs with a slope of around 30 degrees are ideal for maximum solar gain.

However, east and west-facing roofs can also be suitable with a slightly steeper angle. It is important to ensure that there are no obstructions such as trees or buildings that could cast a shadow on the solar panels.

In addition, it is important to consider the potential impact of solar panel installation on protected structures and architectural conservation areas.

In such cases, it is recommended to consult with the local planning authority to ensure that the installation is in compliance with regulations and does not negatively impact the historic character of the building or area.

Overall, careful consideration of location and installation factors is essential for successful solar panel installation in Ireland.

Implications for Energy Security

The new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels on homes and other buildings in Ireland have significant implications for energy security. By increasing the generation of solar energy, the country will become less reliant on imported fossil fuels, which will improve energy security.

Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy that can be generated locally. By installing solar panels on rooftops, homes and non-domestic buildings can generate their own electricity and reduce their reliance on the grid. This can help to reduce the risk of power outages and improve energy security.

In addition, the increased use of solar energy can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. This is important for energy security as climate change can have significant impacts on energy infrastructure and supply.

The new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels on homes and other buildings are also in line with the EU's Solar Rooftops Initiative, which aims to increase the use of solar energy across Europe. By aligning with this initiative, Ireland is taking a step towards a more sustainable and secure energy future.

Overall, the new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels on homes and other buildings have significant implications for energy security in Ireland. By increasing the use of solar energy, the country can become less reliant on imported fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve energy security.

Future Prospects and Challenges

As Ireland continues to promote renewable energy, the future prospects for solar panels exempt development are promising.

Homeowners and businesses alike can take advantage of the new planning permission exemptions for rooftop solar panels, allowing for unlimited installation without any requirement for planning permission (subject to certain conditions) on homes, industrial buildings, business premises, community and educational buildings, places of worship, health buildings, libraries, and farms.

However, challenges remain in terms of permitting procedures and grid integration. While the new exemptions simplify the planning process, other permitting procedures and regulations may still apply, such as building codes and safety regulations.

It is important for homeowners and businesses to research and understand these requirements before installing solar panels.

Another challenge is grid integration. As more homes and businesses install solar panels, the grid may become overloaded during peak production periods. This could lead to power outages or other disruptions.

To address this, the government is working to upgrade the grid and implement new technologies, such as energy storage systems, to better manage the influx of solar energy.

Overall, the future prospects for solar panels in Ireland are bright, but challenges remain. Homeowners and businesses must navigate permitting procedures and grid integration to ensure a successful and sustainable transition to renewable energy.