Emerging renewable energy technologies and battery energy storage systems

Where appropriate, planning authorities should give due consideration to the use of suitable emerging technologies that can assist with enhancing the renewable energy potential of a development (for example, green hydrogen production facilities, heat networks, geo-thermal, and BESS). This approach can support decarbonisation efforts by achieving an increased benefit from renewable sources. Full details of proposals should be provided with the planning application, for example, planning applications for BESS development must be accompanied by details of the type, number, capacity, and chemical composition of batteries to enable assessment by planning authorities in line with their statutory responsibilities. Emerging technologies which support renewable energy development may be a stand-alone proposal; may be incorporated into a proposed renewable energy development scheme; or may be co-located with an existing renewable energy development. In all cases, the development must be properly described. There should be sufficient and robust evidence available on the emerging technology with any potential adverse impacts (above and/or below ground) understood and addressed in order for a proposal to be considered acceptable.